FIFA Considers Banning Mexican Clubs With Shared Ownership From International Tournaments

FIFA’s decision to exclude León from the 2025 Club World Cup may only be the beginning of a sweeping crackdown on Mexican football. According to journalist Edgar Valero, global football’s governing body is considering a historic sanction: banning all Liga MX clubs with shared ownership structures from international competitions.

As reported by Marca, León took their case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) after being disqualified despite winning the Concacaf Champions League in 2023. The club argues that the rule barring teams with the same owner was introduced after they had already qualified. However, FIFA is reportedly furious with the appeal and may use it as a catalyst for stricter enforcement.

If enacted, the measure would target clubs linked to corporate groups such as Grupo Pachuca, Grupo Orlegi, TV Azteca, and Grupo Caliente—affecting teams like Santos, Atlas, Mazatlán, Puebla, Tijuana, and Querétaro.

This move could force Liga MX to address an issue long ignored. So far, league president Mikel Arriola has remained silent. But the threat of being shut out from international play might finally trigger serious reform within Mexican football.