Major League Soccer’s Exciting Transfer Season: Key Acquisitions and Changes 
Major League Soccer (MLS) is set to expand its presence in the 2025 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, with 16 first teams participating. This decision comes as part of a new qualification framework aimed at enhancing competition and providing more opportunities for clubs to vie for championships outside of regular league play.
Key Takeaways
- Increased Participation: The number of MLS first teams in the U.S. Open Cup has doubled from eight to 16.
- Qualification Criteria: U.S.-based MLS teams not competing in the Leagues Cup or Concacaf Champions Cup automatically qualify for the U.S. Open Cup.
- Inclusion of MLS NEXT Pro Teams: Ten MLS NEXT Pro teams will also compete in the tournament, adding depth to the competition.
Expanded Format for 2025
The 2025 U.S. Open Cup will see a significant increase in the number of participating MLS teams. The New England Revolution, among the 16 teams, will enter the tournament in the Round of 32, with eight teams hosting their opening matches. This expansion is part of a broader strategy to enhance the tournament’s competitiveness and visibility.
Qualification Overview
The qualification for the U.S. Open Cup is structured to reward club performance while managing player workload. Here’s how the qualification works:
- Automatic Qualification: U.S.-based MLS clubs not involved in the Leagues Cup or Concacaf Champions Cup automatically qualify.
- Supporters’ Shield Standings: The remaining teams are determined based on the previous season’s Supporters’ Shield standings, excluding those participating in the Concacaf Champions Cup.
- MLS NEXT Pro Teams: Ten teams from MLS NEXT Pro will enter the tournament in the First Round, further enriching the competition.
Competition Highlights
The 2025 season will feature several key tournaments alongside the U.S. Open Cup:
- Concacaf Champions Cup: 10 MLS clubs will compete, starting February 4 and concluding June 1.
- Leagues Cup: 18 MLS clubs will face Liga MX teams from July 29 to August 31.
- Canadian Championship: All three Canadian MLS teams will participate from April through October.
MLS Clubs Participation Breakdown
Here’s a breakdown of MLS clubs participating in the 2025 U.S. Open Cup:
| Eastern Conference | Western Conference |
|---|---|
| Atlanta United FC | Austin FC |
| Charlotte FC | Colorado Rapids |
| Chicago Fire FC | FC Dallas |
| FC Cincinnati | Houston Dynamo FC |
| D.C. United | LA Galaxy |
| Inter Miami CF | LAFC |
| New England Revolution | Minnesota United FC |
| New York City FC | Portland Timbers |
| New York Red Bulls | San Jose Earthquakes |
| Nashville SC | St. Louis City SC |
| Orlando City SC | Vancouver Whitecaps |
| Philadelphia Union | |
| Toronto FC |
Looking Ahead
The new qualification structure will be in place for the 2025 and 2026 MLS seasons, with a review planned for 2027. This framework aims to adapt to the evolving landscape of soccer competitions in North America, especially with the FIFA Club World Cup and FIFA World Cup set to take place in the region.
As the 2025 U.S. Open Cup approaches, fans can look forward to an exciting tournament that showcases the best of American soccer, with increased participation from top clubs and a commitment to fostering competitive play across the league.
