Liga MX has confirmed the full calendar for Apertura 2026, with the start scheduled for July 16th. Cruz Azul enters the competition as current champion after winning Clausura 2026, consolidating itself as the current monarch of Mexican football.
Datas main and official schedule
The tournament follows the calendar established by Liga MX with the following milestones:
- Competition Abertura: July 16, 2026
- Campeão from Campeões: July 25
- Início by Liguilla: November 19
- Final outbound: December 10
- Final back: December 13th
Dates may change depending on international commitments. The start of the tournament will coincide with the Copa final stages of Mundo 2026, which will have its final on July 19th at Estádio Nova York and Nova Jersey.
Renovações and changes in teams
Diversas teams carry out significant reformulations for Apertura 2026. Santos announced the return of Brazilian coach Renato Paiva, seeking to regain competitiveness. Monterrey has entered into an agreement with Matías Almeyda to occupy the position of technical director.
América and Chivas carry out pending issues with their respective fans and promise reinforcements to seek competitiveness in the new semester. Essas transformations indicate that the tournament will have a fierce competition between title candidates.
Retorno of Atlante and absence of Mazatlán
Atlante returns as the protagonist of Apertura 2026 after periods of absence, bringing its historical tradition to the competition. Os Potros from Hierro arrive with expectations of regaining their place in the elite of Mexican football.
On the other hand, Mazatlán will not participate in the tournament, marking a significant change in the format of Liga MX. The absence of Cañoneros ends a recent cycle in the competition’s history.
Foco in Copa of Mundo 2026
Até the official start of Apertura 2026, the attention of Mexican football will remain focused on Copa of Mundo 2026. The tournament will serve as preparation and showcase for the players who are part of the Liga MX squads during the break in the domestic calendar.
The synchronization between the start of the competition and the final stages of Mundial creates a special scenario. Clubes will have the opportunity to adjust squads based on the performance of their international athletes in the global competition.
Estrutura and expectations
The format maintains the tradition of Liguilla in November, consolidating the structure that characterizes Liga MX tournaments. The final stretch in December concentrates decisions, following the established pattern.
Cruz Azul arrives as the favorite, but reformulations in competing teams suggest open competition. Apertura 2026 promises intense emotions and fierce competitions for the final prizes.
