The Court of Arbitration for Sport and Liga MX
The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) is preparing to announce soon the conditions and timeline for the reinstatement of promotion and relegation in Liga MX, sources have informed ESPN. This decision comes after a suspension that lasted since 2019, during which the top tier of Mexican football has remained at 18 teams. It is anticipated that the promotion system will return by 2026, along with revised criteria that could enable teams from the second division to ascend to Liga MX once more.
Background and Appeal
In 2025, ten clubs from Liga de Expansión took the initiative by filing a case with CAS, seeking the reintroduction of promotion and relegation which was halted amid the COVID-19 pandemic during the 2019/2020 season. The CAS confirmed receipt of this appeal on May 19, 2025, stating that it aims to restore the competitive structure that promotes upward mobility among teams in the league.
Current Proceedings
According to CAS protocols, both parties involved are currently exchanging written submissions and arguments regarding the appeal. A formal hearing will be scheduled at a later date, contingent on the agreement of those involved. As highlighted in their communications, the possibility will soon exist for the league to determine the specific requirements necessary for a second division team to achieve promotion.
Historical Standards for Promotion
Historically, Liga MX enforced a set of standards which included financial viability, suitable seating capacity for home games, and a comprehensive business plan assessed by an external auditor, along with a financial reserve for enhancements if a team qualified for promotion.
Future Considerations
The specifics surrounding potential changes to these stipulations remain unclear until their forthcoming decision. CAS is also expected to clarify whether the promotion and relegation can be implemented starting in the 2025-2026 season or deferred to the subsequent one.
Expansion of Liga MX
Additionally, Liga MX management is exploring the feasibility of expanding the first division from 18 to 20 teams, thereby providing more clubs the opportunity to ascend from the second tier. This expansion could change the dynamics of competition within the league and enhance overall interest in Mexican football.
