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MLS Rejects Promotion-Relegation, Wants More Open Cup Jeopardy

8/22/2026

43 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

MLS commissioner Larry Berg said promotion and relegation is inappropriate for MLS but wants more jeopardy.
USL president Paul McDonough said Open Cup spots should be earned through competitive performance.
MLS entered 16 of its 27 U.S. clubs in the 2025 Open Cup.
USL aims to launch a Division I Premier league in 2028 to complete a three-tier system.

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Story summary

MLS commissioner Larry Berg said promotion and relegation is inappropriate for MLS but wants more jeopardy.
USL president Paul McDonough said Open Cup spots should be earned through competitive performance.
MLS entered 16 of its 27 U.S. clubs in the 2025 Open Cup.
USL aims to launch a Division I Premier league in 2028 to complete a three-tier system.