Atlante Eyes Liga MX Return Through Mazatlán FC Franchise Deal

Atlante’s Ambition for Liga MX Sparks Major Franchise Talks

Atlante’s long-held aspiration to secure a Liga MX return has reached a decisive stage, as the club actively negotiates for Mazatlán FC’s First Division franchise. After a decade in the Liga de Expansión, Atlante is now positioned at the forefront of Mexican football headlines with its determined bid for promotion.

Atlante and the Liga MX Return: Inside the Negotiations

Sources close to the club confirm that Atlante is deep in discussions with Grupo Salinas, the owner of Mazatlán FC. While an official deal has not yet been signed, insiders reveal that the Potros de Hierro view this acquisition as the most realistic path back to Mexico’s top flight. Although Atlante remains focused on earning promotion through sporting merit, the purchase of Mazatlán represents a strategic Plan B.

Grupo Salinas initially explored the possibility of selling Puebla, but those negotiations stalled, leaving Mazatlán FC as the primary candidate for a sale. Talks have reportedly resumed with renewed optimism, and Atlante’s leadership, led by Emilio Escalante, is working diligently to finalize an agreement.

Certification Sets Atlante Apart

A crucial element in Atlante’s favor is its unique certification by the Mexican Football Federation. Currently, Atlante is the only club in Liga de Expansión meeting all requirements for promotion to Liga MX—making them the sole viable choice should a franchise switch occur. This status significantly strengthens their negotiating position and underlines the seriousness of their efforts.

What Would the Franchise Swap Mean?

Should the deal go through, Mazatlán FC would not vanish from the football landscape. Instead, the Sinaloa-based team would assume Atlante’s current spot in Liga de Expansión, preserving both clubs’ legacies. This approach avoids the fate of former teams like Jaguares or Lobos BUAP, whose franchises dissolved after similar transactions.

Timetable and Future Steps for Atlante’s Liga MX Return

According to reports from TUDN, the goal is to finalize the franchise transfer shortly before the 2026 World Cup, with an official announcement expected at the Liga MX assembly following the tournament. This timeline would see Atlante return to the top division for the Apertura 2026 season, marking a new chapter in the club’s storied history.

Notably, Atlante is expected to share the iconic Estadio Banorte (formerly Estadio Azteca) alongside América and Cruz Azul. The stadium, which has previously served as Atlante’s home during three separate eras, would once again host the Potros de Hierro as they rejoin Mexico’s football elite.

Atlante’s Liga MX Return Signals a New Era

The potential return of Atlante to Liga MX carries major implications for both the club and the league. Atlante’s passionate fan base, deep-rooted history, and competitive spirit would undoubtedly add fresh excitement to Mexico’s top division. Meanwhile, the club’s methodical approach—balancing merit-based promotion with strategic franchise acquisition—demonstrates a model of ambition and adaptability in modern football.

Opinion: Why Atlante’s Comeback Matters for Mexican Football

Atlante’s journey back toward Liga MX is more than a business deal; it’s a testament to their resilience and refusal to fade into obscurity. The club’s focus on both sporting excellence and smart negotiation is commendable, and their return would inject new rivalry and tradition into the league. If completed, this move could inspire other iconic clubs to pursue a similar path, ultimately raising the bar for Mexican football as a whole.

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