Major League Soccer is set to adjust its schedule, transitioning to a summer-to-spring format starting in 2027. Approved by the league’s board of governors on Thursday, this change will see the MLS season commence in mid-July and conclude in April, with playoffs and the championship game slated for May. Compared to the current schedule where games start in February and playoffs kick off in mid-October, the MLS Cup final is currently scheduled for December 6.
Under the new schedule, a winter break from mid-December to early or mid-February will be implemented, with no games taking place in January. Additionally, another break will occur in parts of June and July to align with various international competitions happening during that time. Speaking at a press conference, commissioner Don Garber expressed that this decision is pivotal for the league’s future, providing opportunities for growth and positioning MLS as a top global league.
While the 2026 season will adhere to the existing winter-winter schedule, a “transition season” is planned for February to May 2027. This period will feature a 14-game regular season, playoffs, and the MLS Cup, determining which clubs qualify for prestigious tournaments like the Canadian Championship, the U.S. Open Cup, Leagues Cup, and the CONCACAF Champions Cup.
Concerns have been raised regarding the impact of the schedule shift on northern-based teams like Toronto FC and CF Montreal, which play in outdoor stadiums. Garber assured that despite the change in start and end dates, approximately 91% of games will continue to be played within the same timeframe, encompassing cold-weather months. Acknowledging the varied effects on different clubs, Garber emphasized the commitment of MLS owners to elevate the league’s standing globally.
Addressing climate considerations, the league plans to factor in weather conditions when designing the new schedule, accounting for potential wintry conditions in some regions and extreme heat in others. Notably, the move aims to align MLS with the FIFA calendar and prevent clubs from losing key players to national team duties during crucial parts of the season.
The shift is expected to benefit clubs by synchronizing with the global summer transfer window, allowing them to access a broader pool of players and retain them for a more significant portion of the season. This move is seen as a step towards enhancing the overall quality of play in MLS, aligning it with top leagues worldwide.
Looking ahead to the 2027 season, MLS is contemplating further alterations, potentially transitioning from conference standings to a single-table format. While specifics were not disclosed, Garber emphasized the significance of evolving the competition format to elevate the league’s stature and competitiveness.