Inter Miami's Copa Libertadores Dreams Get Major Lifeline

Alejandro Dominguez, the head of CONMEBOL, has discussed the potential for teams from Major League Soccer (MLS) and Liga MX to participate in the prestigious Copa Libertadores tournament in the near future.

The Copa Libertadores serves as South America's equivalent to the UEFA Champions League and is considered the world's second-most important continental club competition. Jorge Mas, Miami's principal owner, has expressed his aspiration to see his team compete in this tournament.

"The opportunity exists for them," Dominguez stated to Brazilian publication Globo Esporte. Nevertheless, Dominguez emphasized that coordination with CONCACAF would be necessary first. The ongoing presence of Lionel Messi in North America could also play a crucial role, despite no current plans to include Miami in the 2026 Libertadores.

"This has occurred previously, but we maintain great respect for other confederations. Indeed, it's an privilege that clubs from different confederations view the Libertadores as a benchmark for international and global competition," he continued.

Have North American Teams Played In The Copa Libertadores Before?

Have North American Teams Played In The Copa Libertadores Before?

Mas's aspiration could materialize since there's historical precedent. Although no MLS club has ever competed in the Libertadores, two Liga MX sides took part annually from 1998 through 2016.

Cruz Azul (2001), Guadalajara (2010) and Tigres UNAL (2015) all reached finals during this era, though no Mexican club ever claimed victory. Remarkably, they generated more Libertadores finalists than Peru, Bolivia and Venezuela combined.

The arrangement concluded after 18 years due to the demanding qualification process and scheduling conflicts with domestic Liga MX commitments.

In 2023, Mexico made another appeal for North American club inclusion in the competition, but FIFA and CONCACAF rejected this proposal. The influence of Messi and Miami might prove decisive this time.

The Copa Libertadores has transformed significantly since its inaugural South American Championship of Champions in 1948, receiving its current name in 1965. In the most recent edition, 47 South American clubs from 10 nations competed. An all-Brazilian final concluded with Flamengo capturing their fourth title.