Álvarez Máynez asks the Antimonopoly Commission to investigate the end of promotion and relegation in the MX League

Jorge Álvarez Máynez, a former presidential candidate with the Movement Citizen party, has called on Mexico’s National Antitrust Commission to investigate the removal of promotion and relegation in the Liga MX. The politician posted this demand on his social media accounts, stating that he had formally submitted a request to the commission. The move comes amid growing controversy over the decision by the Liga MX to eliminate the system of promotion and relegation for the Apertura 2026 season. According to the league's regulations, teams will no longer be able to ascend or descend between the top-tier league and the second division. This change was announced by Mikel Arriola, the head of the Mexican Football Federation (FMF). Arriola defended the decision, claiming that the Liga de Expansión MX serves as a developmental league rather than a competitive one. Álvarez Máynez expressed his dissatisfaction with the decision, arguing that it undermines competition both on and off the pitch. He emphasized that merit-based sporting performance should remain central to the sport. In his post, he stated that the removal of the promotion and relegation system could lead to potential barriers to competition, monopolistic practices, and other undue restrictions on market functioning. He further explained that the decision affects the integrity of the sport and its ability to foster healthy competition. His call for investigation suggests that he believes the FMF and Liga MX have acted in a manner that violates antitrust principles. The political figure has been vocal about issues related to fair competition and transparency in sports governance. The decision to remove promotion and relegation has sparked widespread criticism. Many football analysts and fans argue that the system is essential for maintaining a dynamic and competitive league structure. Without it, there is concern that the top tier of Mexican football may become stagnant, with fewer opportunities for emerging talent to rise through the ranks. Arriola, who previously described the Liga de Expansión MX as a developmental league, has faced increasing scrutiny over his stance. Critics argue that such a classification may limit the competitiveness of lower-tier teams and discourage investment in grassroots development. The debate highlights broader concerns about how the structure of professional football in Mexico impacts player mobility, fan engagement, and overall league quality. The National Antitrust Commission has yet to respond directly to Álvarez Máynez’s petition. However, the commission has historically taken an active role in regulating sports-related activities in Mexico, including addressing allegations of unfair business practices within the football industry. It is unclear whether the commission will take up the case or if it will defer to the FMF and Liga MX for clarification. As the Apertura 2026 season approaches, the situation remains unresolved. Fans and stakeholders continue to await clarity on the future of promotion and relegation in Mexican football. With the political and economic implications of the decision still unfolding, the outcome of this dispute could have long-term effects on the structure and health of the sport in Mexico.