All 27 major league soccer clubs based in the United States are set to make a full return to the prestigious Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup in 2027. As the oldest ongoing soccer competition in the nation, the tournament has been a cornerstone of American soccer since its inception in 1913. It stands as the third-longest continuously running cup competition globally, open to any club sanctioned by the United States Soccer Federation.
In recent seasons, match congestion—particularly tied to Concacaf Champions Cup commitments—kept several high-profile MLS sides out of the tournament, marking a departure from the historic event’s inclusive legacy. To address this, MLS has committed to a full return in 2027, aligning with a revamped tournament schedule that shifts later rounds to September to alleviate calendar conflicts. The competition will feature a boosted $1 million prize for the champion, alongside a coveted berth in the Concacaf Champions Cup. Since 2000, MLS clubs have dominated the tournament, with the Rochester Rhinos of USL remaining the last non-MLS team to claim the title in 1999.
“The Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup is one of the most powerful platforms we have to showcase what makes American soccer special,” said Dan Helfrich, U.S. Soccer Chief Operating Officer. “When you bring various levels of the soccer community together, you create a connected, competitive environment that moves the sport forward and gives fans the drama of knockout soccer. Along with MLS, USL, and all of the Member Organizations represented in the Open Division, the U.S. Open Cup reflects our shared commitment to strengthen the future of the game in this country.”
Format
Under the newly announced structure, the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup will expand to a massive 96-team field. First-round matchups are slated to be announced in early 2027, with pairings determined by geographic proximity. Gameday rosters will also expand from 18 to 20 players to accommodate the growing demands of the tournament. The initial round will feature 32 teams, comprising MLS Next Pro independent clubs, amateur outfits, and select clubs from USL League One and the USL Championship. Five seeded USL teams will enter directly into the Round of 64, alongside MLS sides, with the seeded slots allocated to the USL Players’ Shield winner, USL Championship Playoffs champion, Eastern and Western Conference top seeds, and the Prinx Tires USL Cup winner.
Key dates
All dates are in 2027
- First Round: April 13-14, 20-21
- Round of 64: July 8-11
- Round of 32: September 14-15
- Round of 16: To be confirmed
- Quarterfinals: November 23-24
- Semifinals: December 1
- Final: December 15