The Athletic: Liga Expansión clubs take FMF to CAS | OneFootball

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Ten clubs from Liga Expansión MX have filed a lawsuit against the Mexican Football Federation (FMF) and Liga MX with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (TAS), demanding the return of promotion and relegation for the 2025-2026 season.

The legal action was prompted by the lack of a formal response from the FMF, just a few months before the end of the six-year pause imposed during the pandemic.

According to documents obtained by The Athletic, the clubs involved —including Atlante, Morelia, Leones Negros, and Venados— argue that they need clarity to plan investments, infrastructure, and broadcasting rights. The FMF claims that the pause began in 2020-2021, so the return of the system would not occur until 2026-2027.

Attorney Eduardo Carlezzo, who represents the clubs, called it "absurd" to oppose the return of promotion and relegation, pointing out that other countries manage this system with multiple clubs every year.

Additionally, Liga MX executives are accused of promoting a closed system in the style of MLS, harming second-division teams.

A key meeting of owners is scheduled for May 26, where the debate may be revisited.

Meanwhile, the lawsuit also cites violations of FMF statutes that guarantee the automatic right to promotion, generating a new conflict in Mexican football.

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