Expansion League Owners Push Lawmakers to Restore Promotion in Mexico

Owners of clubs in Mexico’s second division took a new step this week in their campaign to reinstate promotion to the top tier of national football. On Monday, representatives of Liga Expansión MX held a formal meeting with members of the Sports Commission in the Chamber of Deputies, aiming to build legislative support and reopen the debate on the country’s competitive structure.

The meeting was requested by the clubs themselves as part of a broader strategy that includes legal appeals to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. “We brought this issue here because it’s not just a private matter—it’s of social interest,” said Alberto Castellanos, president of Leones Negros, who emphasized the significance of involving Congress in the discussion.

Paola Michell Longoria, a deputy and chair of the Sports Commission, expressed support for the league’s position. Drawing from her background as a professional athlete, she argued that the lack of upward mobility undermines player development and weakens competition. “We can’t deny any athlete the chance to reach the top. This hurts the entire football ecosystem,” she said.

According to Bolavip México, club officials are now extending their appeal to the executive branch. The Mexican Football Federation, led by Mikel Arriola, has until the end of the current season to reach a decision on whether to reactivate the promotion and relegation system in Mexican football.