Liga MX Could Make a Long-Awaited Return to the Copa Libertadores

Since Liga MX clubs withdrew from the Copa Libertadores in 2016, fans have continued to imagine a possible return to South America’s most prestigious club tournament—a competition where teams like Cruz Azul, Chivas, and Tigres reached historic finals, while clubs such as América and Pachuca came agonizingly close to lifting the trophy.

Mexican clubs stepped away from the Libertadores due to scheduling and format changes that directly conflicted with Concacaf competitions, particularly the Concacaf Champions Cup. The overlap between tournaments made participation increasingly difficult for Liga MX sides.

The main obstacle to a return remains Concacaf’s stance. The confederation requires top clubs from each league to prioritize regional competitions, making it nearly impossible for Mexico’s strongest teams to compete in the Copa Libertadores without sacrificing their involvement in the Concacaf Champions Cup.

Among the ideas being discussed is a controversial proposal: allowing Liga MX teams that finish between fifth and eighth place in the standings to participate in the Copa Libertadores. This approach would avoid pulling top Concacaf-qualified teams away from regional obligations while reopening the door to South American competition.

It has now been ten years since Mexican clubs last appeared in the Copa Libertadores, during the 2016 edition. Toluca, Puebla, and Pumas UNAM were the final representatives, with Pumas advancing as far as the quarterfinals.

The possibility of Liga MX returning to the Libertadores continues to generate debate and excitement, as fans remain eager to see Mexican clubs once again test themselves against South America’s elite.