Mexico’s top football league may significantly benefit from the 2026 World Cup, which it will co-host with the United States and Canada, according to The Athletic. Liga MX is already the most popular league among Spanish speakers in North America and now has an opportunity to attract foreign investment, streamline broadcast rights, and possibly hold official matches in U.S. venues.
While European leagues face backlash for similar plans, such as the controversial La Liga games in Miami, this is viewed more favorably in Mexico. The president of América has stated that the club will seek opportunities to play official matches in the U.S. if Spanish leagues are allowed. The league’s geographical advantage allows Mexican clubs to draw larger crowds in the U.S. than their American counterparts.
However, challenges remain. The Leagues Cup, which features teams from MLS and Liga MX, has not yet gained popularity and is seen as favoring U.S. teams since it is played exclusively in American locations. Figures like Grupo Orlegi chairman Alejandro Irarragorri and Atlas president Aníbal Fájer believe that Liga MX’s main competition is not MLS, but rather major leagues like the NBA, NFL, and Formula 1.
Investment is crucial as well. The upcoming sale of Atlas and the recent $120 million acquisition of Querétaro by Innovatio Capital from the U.S. underscore growing foreign interest. Centralizing the television rights, which are currently divided among clubs, is viewed as essential for increasing commercial success. If successful, Liga MX could rival Europe’s top leagues in profitability, modeling after La Liga’s deal with CVC or the Premier League’s private equity arrangements.
With the World Cup potentially changing the landscape and a significant U.S. fanbase already in place, Liga MX stands at an important juncture. If it capitalizes on this moment, it could emerge as a global leader in football, outpacing its rival MLS.
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