17 December 2023 , 23:13
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There has been uproar as fans and experts have accused MLS of being greedy for its decision about the US Open Cup in 2024. The divison announced this week that it wouldn't enter teams into the competition, winding up many supporters.
Instead, MLS said it plans to send developmental squads to the tournament. Following strong backlash, MLS stated it would review its decision after next year.
"In recent months, the MLS sporting and competition group has been collaborating with U.S. Soccer to shape the future role of MLS teams in the Open Cup," read the leagues statement. "MLS remains committed to working with the federation to evolve and elevate the Open Cup for everyone involved in the years ahead."
The Open Cup gives smaller clubs their only chance to play against MLS teams in competitive matches, as there isn't the promotion/relegation system used elsewhere in the world. These cup games increase club revenue and marketing opportunities. They also contribute to a stronger football culture in mid-sized cities that host USL Championship teams in the lower league.
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Like other domestic football tournaments worldwide, one of the main draws of the Open Cup is the drama of underdogs overcoming first-division teams. In 2022, Sacramento Republic FC reached the competition's final.
USL president Paul McDonough expressed surprise at the MLS announcement about the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, stating via ESPN: "The MLS announcement today about the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup was a surprise to us and contrary to recent public statements. We will speak with U.S. Soccer, and with our owners, before making any further public comment about MLS's position."
MLS commissioner Don Garber has criticised the Open Cup for what he sees as an inadequate broadcast rights situation. However, his reasoning hasn't pleased those who believe the tournament, which has been held since 1914, deserves a permanent spot in the country's football scene.
FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 27: Ifunanyachi Achara #23 of the Houston Dynamo holds the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup trophy after the Dynamo defeated Inter Miami 2-1 in the 2023 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup final at DRV PNK Stadium on September 27, 2023 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. (Photo by Alex Bierens de Haan/USSF/Getty Images for USSF) (Getty Images for USSF)Former U.S. men's national team and MLS player Herculez Gomez reacted strongly, writing: "This is wild. They not only turned their back on the Open Cup but handed out potential death blow for the tournament."
Ex-MLS star Taylor Twellman also voiced his concern, saying: "It can NOT die." Twellman's comments are particularly significant as he works on Apple TV broadcasts for MLS games.
The U.S. Soccer Federation is still deciding how to respond to the MLS's announcement. They stated this week: "Major League Soccer notified U.S. Soccer today of their Board of Governors vote regarding the 2024 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. Our staff is currently reviewing.
"U.S. Soccer and our Members remain committed to the success of the historic U.S. Open Cup and look forward to engaging with all our stakeholders on the future of the tournament."
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