Mexico launches antitrust investigation over alleged monopolistic soccer practices

Mexico’s National Antitrust Commission (CNA) said it has opened an investigation into potential monopolistic practices in domestic soccer after fan complaints about anti-competitive behavior. The probe focuses on the absence of promotion and relegation in Mexico’s pro leagues. Second-division teams and players have protested for weeks, arguing that they should be allowed to move up to the top flight as in previous years. Lower-tier clubs even appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) last year. The Mexican Football Federation (FMF) suspended promotion in 2019 and agreed to restore it by 2026, but said there are no active plans. CNA warned fines could reach 10% of FMF’s annual revenue if wrongdoing is proven.