Mexican soccer could be on the verge of a historic comeback. In 2026 it will be a decade since Liga MX clubs last participated in the Copa Libertadores, and the topic is once again gaining momentum with an idea that is sounding bigger and bigger: a possible comeback driven by MLS and, especially, by Lionel Messi’s global impact in the United States.
For thousands of Hispanic fans living in the U.S., the Copa Libertadores has always been a special tournament. Not only because of the prestige it represents on the continent, but also because for more than 20 years it was the scene of memorable duels where Mexican teams competed toe-to-toe against South American powers, even reaching the finals.
Why is there talk of a return in 2026?
Jorge Mas, owner of Inter Miami, assured that he has already held conversations with CONMEBOL and its president Alejandro Domínguez.
This with the objective of exploring a scenario where MLS could be integrated into the Copa Libertadores.
This possibility, although not yet confirmed as an official agreement, opens a key point:
If MLS enters, Liga MX could benefit, as the return of Mexican clubs could occur in conjunction with U.S. teams.
In the words of the executive himself, the champions of MLS and Liga MX “deserve” a place in the tournament, with the intention of raising the competitive level and giving a leap in quality to club soccer in the region.
What Liga MX would gain by returning to Libertadores
For Mexican soccer, returning to the Copa Libertadores would mean more than nostalgia. It would be:
Compete against top-level rivals
Improve the pace and international demand
Regain sporting prestige in America
Attract greater attention and international markets
In 2026, with the World Cup in North America and soccer growing in the United States, such a tournament would also have a direct impact on the Hispanic audience that follows both Liga MX and MLS.
If MLS joins, Liga MX could benefit
QuéOnnda.com
It would not be an easy return
It’s not just about soccer: returning to Libertadores has always been a “more political than sporting” issue.
For this to happen, Concacaf and Conmebol would have to reach an agreement, which implies complex negotiations.
Among the points that should be resolved are:
Adjustments to Liga MX and MLS calendars
Financial agreements and prize distribution
Official quotas for clubs in both leagues
Definition of formats and international logistics
When was the last Liga MX participation?
Mexican teams last participated in Libertadores in 2016.
His departure was due to issues such as scheduling, unfair awards and lack of agreements between confederations.
For now, the possible return is still in the talks phase, but the mere fact that it is being discussed again is already raising hopes:
That Liga MX returns to the heaviest tournament in the continent and that Mexican soccer recovers the scenario that for years made it grow.
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