Mexican Soccer Faces Leadership Change Amid $1.25 Billion Investment Proposal Ahead of World Cup

The landscape of Mexican soccer is set for significant transformation with the resignation of Mexican Football Federation and Liga MX commissioner president Juan Carlos Rodriguez. This development follows a meeting of Liga MX owners where a substantial $1.25 billion investment from Apollo Global Management was deliberated, as reported by The Athletic.

Significance of the Timing

The timing of this resignation holds particular importance, as the 2026 World Cup is on the horizon, set to be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. This imminent global sporting event heightens the significance of the changes within Mexican soccer.

Rodriguez's Tenure

Juan Carlos Rodriguez was appointed as president of the Mexican Football Federation in 2023, following the national team's disappointing performance in the group stage of the 2022 World Cup. Subsequently, he transitioned to the role of commissioner amid a managerial restructuring within the FMF later in the same year. Rodriguez's involvement was pivotal in negotiating the potential investment from Apollo Global Management before his resignation.

FMF Response

In response to these developments, the FMF stated that the assembly has tasked the interim commissioner to establish a committee comprising 10 teams by January to continue negotiations with the investment fund. The FMF emphasized the importance of strengthening corporate governance within the institution and advancing the crucial transformation project for Mexican soccer.

Interim Commissioner

Mikel Arriola, the current president, will assume the role of interim commissioner of Liga MX until a permanent successor is appointed. As Liga MX navigates changes ahead of the next season, the Leagues Cup competition with Major League Soccer is expected to undergo modifications due to Club World Cup commitments. Given the approaching World Cup and other pertinent endeavors, expediting the selection of a new commissioner has become imperative.