United Soccer League (USL) CEO expressed disappointment at the U.S. Soccer Federation's handling of a dispute involving MLS and the 2024 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, which is having a ripple effect on the USL. The future of the Open Cup, which dates back to 1914, has been in doubt since MLS announced that its first teams wouldn't participate, with teams from MLS Next Pro taking their place.
A majority of the USL's 47 teams across three divisions are expected to participate in the tournament, with individual teams having the final decision on participation. The CEO aims to provide clarity to the USSF regarding the number of USL participants.
The issue stems from an increasingly crowded schedule due to new competitions like the Leagues Cup, according to MLS. The U.S. Soccer Federation initially denied MLS' request for some teams not to participate, but the disagreement persisted.
While a subcommittee has confirmed the 2024 edition will proceed, the final decision on the number of teams is pending. Discussions on the format for future editions are ongoing, causing concern for the USL.
The absence of MLS teams in the Open Cup could impact revenue and interest, leading some USL teams to reconsider participation. The financial significance of MLS teams participating in the competition is crucial.
The USL CEO expressed frustration at the situation, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the historical significance of the Cup. The uncertainty surrounding the tournament's future and MLS's influence on the game remain key concerns.
Despite understanding MLS's scheduling challenges, the CEO believes a more definitive stance from the USSF would have been preferable. The exact format of the 2024 USOC is forthcoming, but apprehension about the competition's future persists.
In conclusion, the USL's involvement in the U.S. Open Cup and the ongoing dispute with MLS and the USSF highlight the complexities of managing professional soccer competitions in the U.S. The decisions made in the coming days will have a significant impact on the tournament's legacy and the broader soccer landscape in the country.
