Supporters Shield Race

[Oldtimer]

@Dunkers, you are correct that the US CCL spots are awarded by the USSF, just like in England the UEFA CL spots are awarded by the FA. It's not MLS's decision. In fact, one CCL spot is awarded to the winner of the US Open Cup, which is available to all clubs, professional or amateur regardless of league. So a USL team could be one of the US teams in the CCL.

Canadian teams don't play in the USOC, and the USSF won't sanction a Canadian team through MLS. So the Supporters Shield is only significant to us for its own right.