Question 1

How many teams are in the 2026 US Open Cup?

Accepted Answer

The 2026 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup features 80 teams: 16 MLS clubs, 17 USL Championship teams, 12 USL League One teams, 2 MLS NEXT Pro teams, 9 USL League Two teams, and 24 amateur qualifiers from leagues including UPSL, NPSL, and regional associations.

Question 2

When is the 2026 US Open Cup Final?

Accepted Answer

The 2026 U.S. Open Cup Final is scheduled for October 21, 2026. The tournament runs from March 17 through October 21 across seven rounds.

Question 3

When do MLS teams enter the 2026 US Open Cup?

Accepted Answer

The 16 MLS teams enter the 2026 U.S. Open Cup in the Round of 32, scheduled for April 14-15. They join the 16 winners from the Second Round.

Question 4

What is a cupset in the US Open Cup?

Accepted Answer

A cupset is the US Open Cup term for an upset, when a lower-division team defeats a higher-division opponent. For example, an amateur team beating a USL Championship club, or a USL League Two side eliminating a USL League One team. Cupsets are a hallmark of the tournament's giant-killing tradition.

Question 5

What is the prize money for the 2026 US Open Cup?

Accepted Answer

The 2026 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup has a total prize purse of $1 million, distributed among the competing teams based on how far they advance in the tournament.