The format and field of the 2026 US Open Cup have been set and a new champion will be crowned in October next year.
A total of 16 MLS clubs will participate in the tournament, which excludes participants in the CONCACAF Champions Cup and Leagues Cup. Last season’s finalists Austin FC, 2023 champions Houston Dynamo and 2022 winners Orlando City are among the MLS sides that will be involved.
Reigning holders Nashville SC will not participate in the competition this season after qualifying for the Champions Cup.
All MLS clubs participate in the tournament in the Round of 32.
As a result of the FIFA World Cup, the Open Cup format has been reduced from eight to seven rounds, while the number of professional club participants has been reduced from 64 to 48.
A total of 80 clubs will compete for $1 million in prize money and a spot in the 2027 CONCACAF Champions Cup.
The schedule for the first and second rounds will be announced by US Soccer in January 2026. A complete list of participants and rules and regulations can be found here:
Here is an overview of the lap schedule:
First round: Tuesday March 17 to Thursday March 19.
Second round: Tuesday March 31 to Wednesday April 1.
Round of 32: Tuesday April 14 to Wednesday April 15.
Round of 16: Tuesday April 28 to Wednesday April 29.
Quarter finals: Tuesday May 19 to Wednesday May 20.
Semi-finals: Tuesday September 15 – Wednesday September 16.
Final: Wednesday October 21
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