Atlanta United will have a new entry point into the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup next season.
U.S. Soccer announced a new format for the 112th edition of the tournament, with all 27 U.S.-based MLS clubs set to enter in the Round of 64.
That means Atlanta United will begin its 2027 U.S. Open Cup run in July rather than earlier in the competition.
MLS clubs will also receive hosting priority for their opening match, giving teams like Atlanta a chance to begin their cup run in front of the home crowd.
The timing of the Round of 64 also lines up with MLS’ transition to its new summer-to-spring calendar for the 2027-28 regular season.
Another notable change comes with roster flexibility.
The U.S. Open Cup will continue its “one club, one entry” format, but matchday rosters will expand from 18 to 20 players in 2027.
MLS clubs will be able to select from first-team players, MLS NEXT Pro players and academy players, giving younger players more opportunities to earn meaningful minutes while clubs balance multiple competitions.
For Atlanta United, that could create another pathway for young talent coming through the organization.
“The Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup connects all leagues, clubs and fans in a unique way,” MLS Executive Vice President of Sporting and Matchday Nelson Rodriguez said. “For MLS clubs, it’s a chance to write a special chapter in the tournament’s history and earn qualification to the Concacaf Champions Cup.”
The tournament will begin with the First Round in April before MLS clubs enter in July.
After the Round of 64, a live draw will determine matchups and hosting scenarios for the Round of 32 and Round of 16.
The Round of 32 is scheduled for Sept. 14-15, followed by the quarterfinals on Nov. 23-24, semifinals on Dec. 1 and the championship match on Dec. 15.
The Round of 16 dates have not yet been announced.
MLS clubs have participated in the U.S. Open Cup since the league’s inaugural season in 1996, and an MLS team has won every edition of the tournament since 2000.
For Atlanta United, the 2027 competition offers another opportunity to chase silverware and potentially earn a spot in the Concacaf Champions Cup.
2027 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Schedule
- First Round: April 13-14 and April 20-21
- Round of 64: July 8-11
- Round of 32: Sept. 14-15
- Round of 16: To be announced
- Quarterfinals: Nov. 23-24
- Semifinals: Dec. 1
- Final: Dec. 15
Dates are subject to change.
