Ascenso and Descenso in Liga MX Set to Return in 2026
The promotion and relegation system in Mexican soccer’s Liga MX is expected to return in 2026, according to José Luis Higuera, owner of Atlético Morelia and former Chivas executive.
Reinstatement of Promotion/Relegation
Higuera stated that the return of promotion and relegation has been agreed upon and signed in assemblies, after being suspended in recent years, ostensibly to strengthen the Liga de Expansión MX. The suspension led to discontent, with clubs such as UDG, correcaminos, and Mérida filing demands before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (TAS).
Requirements for Liga de Expansión MX Teams
Teams in the Liga de Expansión MX must meet certain requirements, including stadium capacity and financial solvency. Higuera emphasized that the issue isn’t elimination, but rather a pause, and he affirmed that this will be reestablished in 2026.
Franchise Relocations Deemed More Harmful
Higuera argues that franchise relocations are more detrimental to Mexican soccer than the temporary absence of promotion and relegation. This kind of instability he says is unseen in any other major soccer league in the world.he also stated that Liga MX owners have realized that the absence of promotion and relegation does not benefit the business.
what specific criteria, beyond stadium capacity, must Liga de Expansión MX teams meet to be eligible for promotion to Liga MX?
Ascenso and Descenso in Liga MX Set to Return in 2026
The promotion and relegation system in Mexican soccerS Liga MX is expected to return in 2026, according to José Luis Higuera, owner of Atlético Morelia and former Chivas executive.
Reinstatement of Promotion/Relegation
Higuera stated that the return of promotion and relegation has been agreed upon and signed in assemblies, after being suspended in recent years, ostensibly to strengthen the Liga de Expansión MX. The suspension led to discontent, with clubs such as UDG, correcaminos, and Mérida filing demands before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (TAS).
requirements for Liga de Expansión MX Teams
Teams in the Liga de Expansión MX must meet certain requirements,including stadium capacity and financial solvency.Higuera emphasized that the issue isn’t elimination, but rather a pause, and he affirmed that this will be reestablished in 2026.
Franchise relocations Deemed More Harmful
Higuera argues that franchise relocations are more detrimental to Mexican soccer than the temporary absence of promotion and relegation. this kind of instability he says is unseen in any other major soccer league in the world.he also stated that Liga MX owners have realized that the absence of promotion and relegation does not benefit the business.
Q&A: Unpacking the Return of Ascenso/Descenso
- What is “Ascenso and Descenso” in Liga MX?
- it’s the promotion and relegation system. The top teams in Liga de Expansión MX (the second-tier league) get promoted to Liga MX, while the bottom teams in Liga MX are relegated down a division. this creates competition and makes every match matter!
- Why was promotion/relegation suspended?
- Officially, it was to help strengthen Liga de Expansión MX. This gave teams a chance to stabilize financially and meet the requirements for promotion. Some suggest the suspension was also to protect certain teams from relegation.
- What are the requirements for Liga de Expansión MX teams to be promoted?
- Teams must meet criteria including stadium capacity (a minimum seating requirement) and demonstrate financial stability.This ensures that promoted teams are ready to compete at the highest level.
- Who is José Luis Higuera and why does his opinion matter?
- He is the owner of Atlético Morelia and a former executive for Chivas.His insights are valuable as he has experiance within the league and understands the dynamics of team ownership and league operations. His comments confirm the plan for return.
- What’s the impact of franchise relocations?
- Higuera sees franchise relocations as more damaging than the suspension of promotion/relegation as they disrupt fan bases and team identities. It creates instability and weakens the overall structure of the league.
- What happens in 2026?
- The plan is for the promotion and relegation system to return.Teams in Liga de Expansión MX will compete for a chance to move up to Liga MX, and the lowest-performing teams in Liga MX will face relegation.
- Trivia: What other major soccer leagues use promotion and relegation?
- Most major European leagues, such as the English Premier League, La Liga (Spain), Serie A (Italy), and the Bundesliga (Germany), all use promotion and relegation. This system is a cornerstone of global soccer.
The return of promotion and relegation in 2026 promises to revitalize Liga MX! Stay tuned for more updates as the system’s comeback approaches.
