Liga MX has announced the elimination of the reclassification format known as Play-In starting with the Clausura 2025 tournament, in order to support the preparation of the Mexican National Team for the 2026 World Cup, to be held in Mexico, the United States and Canada.
This measure was unanimously approved at the recent Assembly of Owners of the Mexican Soccer Federation(FMF), as part of a comprehensive plan presented by technical director Javier Aguirre.
More preparation matches
One of the highlights of the plan is that Liga MX clubs will be required to release players called up to the National Team six and a half weeks before the start of the 2026 World Cup.
The elimination of the play-in format was announced
QuéOnnda.com
This will allow the coaching staff to have more time to work with the team and play a greater number of preparation matches.
“We would have 50% more preparation games than the rest of the qualifiers, plus it is our obligation that those opponents be of a high level.”
“And to have more weeks with the Mexican league players,” said Mikel Arriola, president of the Mexican Soccer Federation.
Changes in the Liguilla
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In addition to the elimination of the Play-In, it has been determined that during the Liguilla of the Clausura 2026 Liga MX tournament, teams will not count on players who are called up to the Mexican National Team.
This decision seeks to avoid interference in the preparation of the national team and to ensure that the players arrive in optimal conditions for the World Cup.
With these measures, Liga MX and the FMF seek to maximize the National Team’s chances of success in the upcoming World Cup.
Thus taking advantage of the host condition and providing the best conditions for the team coached by Javier Aguirre.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
