Liga MX Ends Promotion & Relegation

Beginning on July 16, 2026, Liga MX enters a new era by permanently eliminating promotion and relegation. Article 35 of the competition rules formalizes this change, stating that clubs will no longer move between Liga MX and Expansión MX based on performance. This shift aligns Liga MX with the franchise-based model common in major American sports leagues like the NFL, NBA, and MLB.

For nearly five years, first-division teams have not faced true relegation threats, and Expansión MX clubs have been unable to earn promotion. The formal elimination of promotion and relegation also removes significant financial penalties for lower-ranked Liga MX clubs. In recent seasons, teams have paid fines ranging from 33 million to 80 million pesos (approximately $1.8 million to $4.4 million USD) to maintain their top-flight status, a burden that now disappears.

This move prioritizes long-term investment and club development over traditional competitive movement. While supporters view it as a strengthening measure, critics lament the removal of a core element of soccer culture: earning one's place on the field through performance.