What Happened to Liga MX Femenil?

Liga MX Femenil, officially known as Liga BBVA MX Femenil for sponsorship reasons, was formally announced on December 5, 2016, by the Federación Mexicana de Fútbol (FMF) with the aim of professionalizing and developing women's football talent within Mexico. The league kicked off its inaugural season in July 2017, initially featuring 16 of the 18 Liga MX clubs, with rosters primarily composed of U-23 Mexican-born players. This foundational step was crucial in providing a structured platform where female athletes could pursue professional careers and gain national recognition.

The creation of Liga MX Femenil was driven by a growing demand for women's football and a strategic initiative by the FMF to align with international efforts to promote the women's game. Before 2017, women's soccer in Mexico largely existed in semi-professional or amateur formats, lacking the necessary infrastructure and consistent support. The league's establishment addressed this void, providing a professional framework, organized competitions, and a pathway for players to develop their skills. This move also aimed to improve the overall quality of the game in Mexico and foster a new generation of female footballers.

Key turning points have marked the league's rapid ascent. The inaugural Apertura 2017 final between Chivas and Pachuca set early attendance records, demonstrating immediate public interest. Subsequent seasons saw these records repeatedly shattered, with the Clausura 2018 final drawing over 51,000 fans and the Clausura 2023 final reaching approximately 58,156 spectators, making it one of the highest-attended women's club matches globally. Viewership also surged, with the Apertura 2022 final attracting over 5.3 million viewers. The league has also evolved its player regulations, initially restricting participation to Mexican-born players, but later allowing a limited number of foreign players. As of July 2025, teams were permitted to register up to seven foreign players, a change aimed at increasing the league's competitiveness and attracting international talent.

The consequences of Liga MX Femenil's growth are profound. It has significantly increased the visibility of women's soccer in Mexico, providing role models for young girls and challenging traditional gender stereotypes. The league has become a vital pipeline for the Mexican women's national team and has attracted international stars, enhancing its global profile. However, challenges persist, including wage disparities compared to the men's league, the need for greater investment in infrastructure, and continued efforts to increase media coverage. Player safety and addressing issues like harassment also remain important areas of focus.

As of May 4, 2026, Liga MX Femenil continues its robust development. The 2025-26 season is underway, following the traditional Apertura and Clausura tournament format. Tigres UANL secured their seventh title by winning the Apertura 2025 championship in November 2025, defeating Club América. The Clausura 2026 tournament, which began in January 2026, is currently in its Liguilla (playoffs) phase. The quarterfinals commenced on April 29, 2026, with matches like top-seeded Club América facing FC Juarez, and the semifinals are now taking shape. Discussions about potential format changes, such as a longer, single-season tournament divided into two groups, are also being considered for the Apertura 2026 season to further enhance competitiveness. The league's trajectory remains overwhelmingly positive, solidifying its position as a leading force in women's football.