What is the oldest club in Liga MX?

Liga MX has long been recognized as one of the premier leagues in the Americas, renowned for its rich history and captivating narratives that have firmly established it as one of the most thrilling competitions worldwide.

Throughout its nearly 80-year existence, a total of 56 teams have participated in the league's top division, with 24 of them achieving ultimate glory by clinching the championship title.

However, the path to that coveted trophy has varied over time, as the league has undergone several changes and adopted different formats to determine its champion.

But which team is the oldest in Liga MX, and what is the story behind it? GOAL has everything you need to know about the history of the Mexican top-flight's oldest club.

Liga MX history and format

Liga MX has a rich and storied history that dates back to its formation in 1943 by the Federacion Mexicana de Futbol Asociacion (FMF). Initially known as Liga Mayor, the league consisted of 10 professional teams and followed a traditional single-league table format, akin to European leagues.

In 1970, Mexico hosted the World Cup, and the FMF saw an opportunity to capitalize on the heightened interest in football. As a result, they revamped the league format to attract more fans and attention. The introduction of a two-tournament schedule, named Invierno (winter) and Verano (summer), marked a significant shift in Liga MX's structure. These tournaments later became known as Apertura and Clausura, which are still in use today.

Another integral part of Liga MX's history is the playoff stage known as the Liguilla. Since its inception in 1971, the Liguilla has undergone various formats. The current format involves a qualifying round where teams ranked fifth through 12th compete in single matches, followed by quarterfinals and subsequent knockout stages.

Over the years, Liga MX has cemented its status as one of the most prestigious and exciting leagues in the Americas, captivating fans with its drama, intense competition, and ever-evolving formats.

What is the oldest club in Liga MX?

Pachuca CF holds the distinction of being the oldest club in Liga MX, tracing its roots back to November 1, 1901. With over a century of history, the club has become a symbol of tradition, resilience, and football excellence in Mexico.

The club was founded in the city of Pachuca, Hidalgo, with a vision to promote and develop football in the region. The club's early years were marked by local competitions and friendly matches, gradually establishing Pachuca as a prominent footballing entity.

Over time, the club grew in stature and achieved notable success. In the 1930s, the club enjoyed a period of dominance, winning several regional championships and solidifying its reputation as a force to be reckoned with in Mexican football.

One of Pachuca CF's most significant accomplishments came in 1943 when the club became a founding member of the newly established Liga Mayor, the predecessor to Liga MX. This marked a crucial moment in the club's history as it embarked on a journey that would see it evolve alongside Mexican football.

Pachuca experienced its share of ups and downs in subsequent years, navigating through various divisions and leagues. However, in the early 1990s, the club experienced a resurgence under the leadership of the Gómez family, who took over ownership and injected fresh energy into the organization.

The new era ushered in a period of sustained success for the club. The club clinched its first top-flight league title in the Invierno 1999 tournament, marking a historic milestone. This triumph sparked a new era of achievements, with Pachuca CF capturing numerous league titles, domestic cups, and international honours.

The club's commitment to player development has been a defining aspect of its success. Pachuca has nurtured and produced a host of talented players, many of whom have gone on to represent both the club and the Mexican national team at the highest levels of the sport.

Additionally, Pachuca has made its mark on the international stage, particularly in the CONCACAF region. The club has secured multiple CONCACAF Champions League titles, earning the opportunity to compete against some of the best clubs from North and Central America.

As Pachuca continues to add chapters to its illustrious history, the club remains a symbol of resilience and dedication. The loyal fanbase, known as "Los Tuzos," passionately supports the team, creating an electric atmosphere at the Estadio Hidalgo.

With its rich history, commitment to development, and continued success, Pachuca stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Mexican football and the profound impact that the oldest club in Liga MX has had on the sport in the country.

Which are the five oldest clubs in Liga MX?

These five clubs were part of ten clubs that came together to establish Liga Mayor in 1943, marking a significant moment in Mexican football history. Liga Mayor later underwent changes and rebranding, eventually evolving into Liga MX, which is the top professional football league in Mexico today.