The 2026 Leagues Cup returns this summer with an expanded competition featuring 36 clubs from Major League Soccer (MLS) and Liga MX. Running from August 4 through September 6, 2026, the month-long tournament pits North America’s top clubs against each other in a unique cross-league competition before culminating in the championship match.
Here’s everything you need to know about the 2026 Leagues Cup schedule, including tournament dates, format, knockout rounds, and notable opening fixtures.
When Is the 2026 Leagues Cup?
The 2026 Leagues Cup begins on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, and concludes with the Final on Sunday, September 6, 2026.
2026 Leagues Cup Schedule
| Stage | Dates |
|---|---|
| Matchday 1 | August 4–6, 2026 |
| Matchday 2 | August 7–9, 2026 |
| Matchday 3 | August 11–13, 2026 |
| Quarterfinals | August 25–27, 2026 |
| Semifinals | September 1–2, 2026 |
| Third-Place Match | September 6, 2026 |
| Final | September 6, 2026 |
2026 Leagues Cup Format
The tournament features 36 teams, split evenly between 18 MLS clubs and 18 Liga MX clubs.
During Phase One, every match features an MLS club against a Liga MX opponent. Each team plays three matches against clubs from the opposite league.
At the conclusion of Phase One:
- The top four MLS teams advance.
- The top four Liga MX teams advance.
- The eight qualifying clubs move into a single-elimination knockout bracket beginning with the quarterfinals.
The competition is organized into Eastern and Western regions to reduce travel while maintaining cross-league matchups.
Opening Matchday Highlights
The tournament opens with several marquee matchups featuring some of North America’s biggest clubs.
Tuesday, August 4
- FC Cincinnati vs. Pachuca
- Columbus Crew vs. Atlas
- Club América vs. San Diego FC
- Vancouver Whitecaps vs. Atlante
- Minnesota United vs. FC Juárez
- Charlotte FC vs. Club Necaxa
Inter Miami’s 2026 Leagues Cup Schedule
One of the tournament’s biggest attractions will once again be Inter Miami CF, led by Lionel Messi.
Inter Miami Fixtures
- August 5: Monterrey vs. Inter Miami
- August 8: Inter Miami vs. Atlético San Luis
- August 12: Inter Miami vs. Guadalajara (Chivas)
Inter Miami will be looking to make another deep run after becoming one of the competition’s marquee clubs in recent years.
Orlando City’s 2026 Leagues Cup Schedule
Orlando City also faces a challenging Phase One slate.
Orlando City Fixtures
- August 5: Orlando City vs. Monterrey
- August 8: Orlando City vs. Club León
- August 12: Orlando City vs. Atlético San Luis
When Are the Knockout Rounds?
Following the completion of Phase One, the tournament pauses briefly before entering the elimination rounds.
- Quarterfinals: August 25–27
- Semifinals: September 1–2
- Third-Place Match: September 6
- 2026 Leagues Cup Final: September 6
The champion will be crowned on the final day of the tournament after nearly five weeks of competition.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the 2026 Leagues Cup start?
The tournament begins on Tuesday, August 4, 2026.
When is the 2026 Leagues Cup Final?
The championship match will be played on Sunday, September 6, 2026.
How many teams are in the 2026 Leagues Cup?
There are 36 clubs, including 18 MLS teams and 18 Liga MX teams.
How many games does each team play in Phase One?
Each club plays three matches, all against opponents from the opposite league.
How do teams qualify for the knockout stage?
The top four MLS clubs and the top four Liga MX clubs after Phase One advance to the quarterfinals.
2026 Leagues Cup Schedule Overview
The 2026 Leagues Cup promises another month of high-profile MLS vs. Liga MX action, with clubs competing for regional supremacy and a place in the tournament’s history. Featuring stars from both leagues, compelling rivalries, and a streamlined format, the competition remains one of North America’s premier club tournaments.
Fans can expect packed stadiums, marquee international matchups, and a dramatic knockout stage as the race to lift the 2026 Leagues Cup trophy unfolds throughout August and early September.