The 2026 U.S. Open Cup format and field are set with a new champion set to be crowned next October. 

A total of 16 MLS clubs will take part in the tournament, with CONCACAF Champions Cup and Leagues Cup participants being excluded. Last season’s finalists Austin FC, 2023 champions Houston Dynamo, and 2022 winners Orlando City are among the MLS sides that will be involved. 

Reigning holders Nashville SC are not in this season’s competition after qualifying for the Champions Cup. 

All MLS clubs will enter the tournament in the Round of 32.

Due to the FIFA World Cup, the Open Cup format has been reduced from eight rounds to seven while the amount of professional club participants has been trimmed from 64 to 48. 

A total field of 80 clubs will compete for $1 million in prize money and a berth into the 2027 CONCACAF Champions Cup.

First and second round schedules will be announced by U.S. Soccer in January 2026. A full list of the participants and rules and regulations can be found here:

Here is a breakdown of the round-by-round schedule:

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First Round: Tuesday, March 17 – Thursday, March 19.

Second Round: Tuesday, March 31 – Wednesday, April 1.

Round of 32: Tuesday, April 14 – Wednesday, April 15.

Round of 16: Tuesday, April 28 – Wednesday, April 29.

Quarterfinals: Tuesday, May 19 – Wednesday, May 20.

Semifinals: Tuesday, Sept. 15 – Wednesday, Sept. 16.

Final: Wednesday, October 21