Mexican Soccer Senate Debates Relegation's Fate

A legislative reform to reintroduce promotion and relegation in Mexican soccer is slated for proposal in the Senate. Senator Clemente Castañeda introduced the initiative, emphasizing the importance of sporting merit. This move comes after years of protests from second-division clubs who claim broken promises regarding the system's reinstatement. Owners of top-flight teams initially suspended promotion and relegation in April 2020, citing financial difficulties exacerbated by the pandemic.

The original plan was a five-year suspension, with reinstatement scheduled for last year. However, this did not occur, leading to widespread discontent. Second-division clubs argue the pandemic was used as a pretext to permanently eliminate the system. Furthermore, Liga MX imposed stringent requirements, such as a 30,000-seat stadium capacity, making it difficult for aspiring teams to meet the criteria.

This situation has disillusioned new investors who acquired teams with the expectation of promotion returning. Protests have become common, with players and fan groups voicing their opposition. The National Antitrust Commission is now investigating potential monopolistic practices related to the absence of promotion and relegation.