The CONCACAF Gold Cup will adopt a revamped structure featuring two groups of eight teams each, expanding the group stage to 16 nations. The change was reported Thursday by USA TODAY Sports columnist Jon Arnold.
The new format increases the number of participants in the group phase from the previous 12 or 16-team configurations used in recent editions. With two groups of eight, each team will play seven group-stage matches before the knockout rounds begin.
CONCACAF has not yet announced the full schedule, qualification pathway, or dates for the next Gold Cup. The confederation typically stages the tournament every two years, with the United States serving as frequent host or co-host.
The expansion aims to give more member associations meaningful competitive matches and increase the tournament's commercial appeal across the region.
