USSF Denies MLS' Open Cup Withdrawal

Major League Soccer is back in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup after the USSF denied their withdrawal from the historic competition.

© J. Alexander Dolan

Days after reports indicated that Major League Soccer would pull their clubs out of the historic Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, the United States Soccer Federation shut down the potential decision.

On Friday, December 15th, Major League Soccer announced its intention to withdraw clubs from the tournament and have their respective MLS NEXT Pro club represent the league instead. In a statement announcing the decision, the league stated their intent behind the move was to “provide emerging professional players with additional opportunities for meaningful competition” and “reduce schedule congestion” for MLS first teams.

The United States Soccer Federation denied MLS’ request Wednesday morning. In a statement, USSF said, “As we move forward, we will continue our review of the Open Cup to ensure it aligns with the U.S. Soccer strategic pillars. We remain committed to addressing the needs and concerns of all our members, including MLS, and other stakeholders to enhance and improve the U.S. Open Cup.”

MLS released a statement shortly after reacting to the decision. The league explained they withdrew because “several essential goals and concerns that must be addressed in connection with the tournament.”

Wednesday's statement did include some good news, as independently owned MLS NEXT Pro clubs (Chattanooga FC and Carolina Core FC) remain eligible for the 2024 U.S. Open Cup.

Major League Soccer ended their statement saying they are “committed to finding a viable solution for the 2024 tournament and is working to find a pathway that addresses its goals and concerns. Moving forward, MLS will remain focused on increasing opportunities for up-and-coming players.”