Mexican soccer league ends promotion and relegation, sparking protests
Protests and controversy have erupted in Mexican professional soccer, particularly over the decision to suspend the system of promotion and relegation, writes Jesse Foley-Tapia. The post Mexican soccer league ends promotion and relegation, sparking protests appeared first on Mexico News Daily
In a surprising move, Mexican soccer's top league announced plans to abandon the longstanding promotion and relegation system, sparking outrage among players and fans alike. This decision, made by the Mexican Football Federation (FMF), ends a seven-decade tradition that allowed lower-tier teams to rise to the Liga MX and added excitement to the sport.
The removal of this system eliminates the tension of potential relegation, diminishing the stakes for teams in the second-tier league, Expansión MX. Players and fans protested the change during games, with some refusing to take part in the opening minute, covering their mouths during photoshoots, and even petitioning fans to wear black as a symbol of mourning.
Despite threats of hefty fines from the FMF and Disciplinary Commission, players have vowed not to be silenced. This unprecedented decision comes after ongoing financial struggles due to the COVID-19 pandemic led to the temporary pause of promotion and relegation in 2020. FIFA had also urged the league to bring back the system, but Liga MX has now decided to proceed with the permanent change.
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