The 2025 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Format has been finalized and there is plenty of New England representation.
Starting from the top, the New England Revolution will be returning to the historic tournament after not playing in the 2024 iteration. New England won the tournament back in 2007 in what was its first major trophy win.
The Revolution will be joined by Rhode Island FC, Hartford Athletic, Portland Hearts of Pine, and Bay State Soccer League’s CD Faialense. Notably, no members of USL League Two’s Northeast division are in the tournament, including USL League Two Champion Seacoast United.
The 2025 edition of the tournament kicks off on March 18-20 with a 32-game First Round of exclusively amateur vs. pro matchups. The Open Cup is the only competition in USA-based team sports where amateurs have the chance to play professionals in direct competition.
“The Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup is a crucial connection point for all levels of soccer in the United States,” said U.S. Soccer chief executive officer JT Batson ahead of the tournament. “U.S. Soccer exists in service to soccer and this historic tournament allows us to lift up the people who are leading the charge to support soccer in their communities. We’re pleased to continue working with and collaborating with all U.S. Soccer members to maximize the tournament’s impact on soccer at all levels in this country.”
The Revolution and RIFC will enter the tournament in the third round which is slated for April 15-16 while CD Faialense, the Latics, and the Hearts of Pine will begin play in the first round.
Nothing will make me happier than if the Revs play another New England team in this tournament and I can easily be an away supporter.
Any idea why no League Two teams? I love cheering on my Western Mass Pioneers during the Open cup's early rounds.