End of the Requirement? Liga MX Considers Changes for the Future of Liga MX Femenil

Starting in 2026, clubs may no longer be obligated to keep a women’s team
Santos Laguna v Necaxa - Torneo Apertura 2025 Liga MX Femenil
Santos Laguna v Necaxa - Torneo Apertura 2025 Liga MX Femenil | Manuel Guadarrama/GettyImages

Liga MX Femenil could undergo a historic change in the coming years. Several reports suggest that, starting in 2026, Liga MX clubs may no longer be required to maintain a women’s franchise. The proposal, set to be discussed at the next Owners’ Assembly, aims to restructure the competition model and give clubs greater flexibility.

Currently, every first-division club must operate a women’s team in order to participate in Liga MX. However, with the return of promotion and relegation scheduled for 2026, concerns have arisen that newly promoted clubs from Liga de Expansión may not be able to afford a women’s squad due to financial constraints.

The initiative would allow clubs to opt out of the women’s league without facing sanctions, while opening the door for independent investors and projects to join Liga MX Femenil —similar to models seen in the NWSL in the United States.

To protect players in case some teams disappear, a draft system is being considered to help them relocate to other clubs within the league. This mechanism would be crucial for a player's career and ensure competitive balance.

Although this measure is not yet official, it will be carefully debated in the upcoming Owners’ Assembly. If approved, the reform would take effect in the summer of 2026, coinciding with the return of promotion and relegation in Mexican soccer.

A League in Transformation

This potential shift sparks a crucial debate: will removing the obligation strengthen Liga MX Femenil by attracting more serious projects, or could it represent a step back by leaving women’s soccer at the discretion of each club?

Regardless of the outcome, the future of Liga MX Femenil will ultimately depend on the vision and commitment of clubs, league officials, and investors. The real challenge lies in ensuring that players enjoy professional stability while keeping the league on track to become one of the most promising women’s football projects in Latin America.

Do you think removing the obligation to keep a women’s team will strengthen Liga MX Femenil by bringing in stronger investments, or will it put its growth at risk?

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