The Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, established in 1913, stands as the oldest soccer competition in the United States, embodying the nation’s rich soccer heritage. The 2025 edition, marking the 110th iteration, is poised to be a landmark event, featuring a record 96 teams and a revamped structure aimed at enhancing the tournament’s competitiveness and inclusivity.
Tournament Structure and Format
The 2025 U.S. Open Cup introduces a significant overhaul in its format, designed to elevate the level of competition and provide a more equitable platform for teams across various tiers. The tournament will commence with a First Round scheduled for March 18-20, 2025, where 32 amateur teams from the Open Division will face off against 32 professional teams from the USL Championship and USL League One. This initial round sets the stage for a dynamic and unpredictable competition, as lower-tier teams have the opportunity to challenge and potentially upset higher-seeded professional clubs.
Following the First Round, the tournament will progress through subsequent rounds, culminating in the final match on October 1, 2025. The inclusion of 16 Major League Soccer (MLS) teams, entering in the Round of 32, adds a heightened level of excitement and prestige to the competition. Notably, MLS teams participating in the 2025 CONCACAF Champions Cup or the 2025 Leagues Cup are excluded from the U.S. Open Cup, ensuring that the tournament remains accessible to a broader range of teams.
Participating Teams
The 2025 U.S. Open Cup will feature a diverse array of teams, reflecting the depth and breadth of soccer talent across the United States. The 16 MLS teams participating are:
- Austin FC
- Charlotte FC
- Chicago Fire FC
- D.C. United
- FC Dallas
- Houston Dynamo FC
- Minnesota United FC
- Nashville SC
- New England Revolution
- New York City FC
- New York Red Bulls
- Orlando City SC
- Philadelphia Union
- Portland Timbers
- San Jose Earthquakes
- St. Louis CITY SC
In addition to the MLS teams, the tournament will include 10 MLS NEXT Pro teams, 24 USL Championship teams, 14 USL League One teams, and 48 amateur teams from the Open Division. This comprehensive participation underscores the tournament’s commitment to fostering soccer development at all levels and providing a platform for emerging talent to showcase their skills.
Qualifying Rounds and Open Division
A notable aspect of the 2025 U.S. Open Cup is the record-high 114 amateur teams entering the Qualifying Rounds, marking a significant increase from previous years. These teams, representing various regional leagues and associations, will compete in the fall of 2024 for a coveted spot in the Tournament Proper. The Open Division’s expanded participation reflects the growing interest and investment in soccer at the grassroots level across the nation.
Tournament Schedule and Venues
The tournament’s schedule is meticulously crafted to ensure a seamless progression from the initial rounds to the final. The First Round matches are slated for March 18-20, 2025, with subsequent rounds following in the weeks leading up to the final on October 1, 2025. Matches will be hosted at various venues across the country, providing teams with the opportunity to play in diverse environments and offering fans nationwide the chance to experience the excitement of the U.S. Open Cup firsthand.
Significance and Impact
The 2025 U.S. Open Cup is more than just a soccer tournament; it is a celebration of the sport’s growth and the unifying power of competition. By incorporating a wide range of teams from different levels, the tournament fosters a sense of community and shared passion for soccer. The inclusion of amateur teams alongside professional clubs exemplifies the tournament’s dedication to promoting soccer development and providing opportunities for players to advance to higher levels of competition.
For fans, the 2025 U.S. Open Cup promises thrilling matches, unexpected upsets, and the chance to witness emerging talent on a national stage. The tournament’s expanded format and diverse participation are set to elevate the profile of soccer in the United States, inspiring the next generation of players and fans alike.