2026 U.S. Open Cup Format Finalized, Setting Stage for Houston Dynamo’s Run

The 2026 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup now has a confirmed format, schedule, and field of participating clubs, giving fans across Houston a clear picture of what to expect as the nation’s oldest soccer tournament returns. U.S. Soccer announced the finalized structure this week, ensuring the 2026 edition will continue the event’s tradition while aligning with the expanded soccer calendar that surrounds the North American-hosted FIFA World Cup.

Key Details of the 2026 Tournament

The announcement outlines how professional and amateur clubs from across the country will enter the competition through a tiered structure. While the full bracket will release closer to kickoff, U.S. Soccer confirmed that qualifying rounds will begin early in the year, followed by later entry rounds for higher-division clubs.

Houston Dynamo supporters can expect the team to join the tournament during the deeper stages, consistent with Major League Soccer participation in recent editions. Although specific match locations will come later, the Dynamo historically push to host early matches at Shell Energy Stadium, creating opportunities for local fans to see knockout soccer close to home.

Because 2026 will feature a congested national soccer calendar, tournament organizers adjusted scheduling windows to avoid conflicts with World Cup events. This updated structure helps ensure competitive integrity while still preserving the tradition of underdog stories and open competition that define the U.S. Open Cup.

Why It Matters for the Houston Dynamo

The Dynamo have a deep connection to the U.S. Open Cup, winning the trophy in 2018 and reaching later rounds in recent seasons. With the team continuing to rebuild its competitive identity, the revamped 2026 format offers another shot at silverware and a direct path to the Concacaf Champions Cup.

Because matches often fall during MLS play, squad depth will play a key role. Houston’s younger players and recent signings could see more minutes, giving fans a broader look at the roster. Additionally, hosting matches would boost local engagement and reinforce the city’s growing soccer culture ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

What’s Next

U.S. Soccer will publish the full match calendar and finalized team list in the coming months. The Houston Dynamo are expected to share venue information, ticket sales updates, and roster plans ahead of the club’s tournament entry round.

With Houston set to play a major part in World Cup hosting duties, the 2026 U.S. Open Cup adds another significant soccer event to the city’s sports calendar. Fans can expect a busy, exciting year filled with high-stakes matches and renewed focus on domestic cup competition.

This article is a summary of reporting by Minnesota United FC. Read the full story here.