Atlanta United to compete in 2024 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup

Major League Soccer and U.S. Soccer today announced that eight MLS clubs and 11 MLS NEXT Pro teams will compete in the 2024 U.S. Open Cup. Atlanta United is one of eight MLS clubs that will participate in the tournament based on the 2023 MLS Supporters’ Shield standings.

• MLS Clubs - The eight MLS clubs will include Houston Dynamo FC (last year’s Open Cup champion) and the top seven ranked U.S.-based teams according to the 2023 MLS Supporters’ Shield standings, other than clubs playing in the 2024 Concacaf Champions Cup: Atlanta United, FC Dallas, Sporting KC, Los Angeles FC, Real Salt Lake, San Jose Earthquakes and Seattle Sounders FC.
• MLS NEXT Pro Clubs - The 11 participating MLS NEXT Pro teams will include nine MLS affiliates and two independent clubs. The nine MLS-affiliated teams competing will be based on the 2023 MLS NEXT Pro final standings, other than those clubs whose MLS first teams are participating in either the 2024 U.S. Open Cup or 2024 Concacaf Champions Cup. The 11 teams are Austin FC II, Carolina Core, Chattanooga FC, Chicago Fire II, Colorado Rapids 2, Crown Legacy FC, Los Angeles Galaxy II, Minnesota United 2, New York City FC II, New York Red Bull II and Portland Timbers 2.

MLS teams will only play lower division opponents until it cannot be avoided, enhancing the tournament's drama and appeal.