The 2026 MLS season officially kicks off this weekend on February 21–22, launching the league’s 31st campaign. This year serves as a major transitional season for Major League Soccer: it is the final full campaign on the traditional spring-to-fall schedule before the league shifts to a summer-to-spring calendar starting in 2027 (to better align with global football). The regular season runs from February 21 through November 7 (Decision Day), with each of the 30 teams playing 34 matches. A significant break occurs from May 25 to July 16 due to the FIFA World Cup 2026 being hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico—MLS will then resume on July 16–17 with a special focus on high-profile rivalry matches to recapture fan attention.

Every single match this season is available exclusively on Apple TV (in over 100 countries, no blackouts, no extra fees for subscribers). Starting in 2026, all MLS games are included in the standard Apple TV+ subscription ($12.99/month or $99.99/year), following the league and Apple’s decision to end the standalone MLS Season Pass product. This change is part of a renegotiated media rights deal originally worth $2.5 billion over 10 years ($250 million annually), now shortened to end after the 2028-29 season. For 2026 specifically, MLS receives $200 million from Apple, with adjustments providing an estimated $50 million overall increase through 2029 compared to the prior terms. This restructuring aims to boost visibility and viewership by bundling MLS with Apple’s other content, like Formula 1 and MLB Friday Night Baseball.

Entering 2026, Inter Miami CF—fresh off winning MLS Cup 2025—remain the clear favorites in the Eastern Conference, led by Lionel Messi and supported by smart offseason additions for depth. In the Western Conference, LAFC (bolstered by Son Heung-min and Denis Bouanga) sit atop most expert predictions, but the Vancouver Whitecaps (2025 finalists) and expansion side San Diego FC (who had a strong debut year) are legitimate threats. Early power rankings place Inter Miami and LAFC as the top two overall, followed closely by Columbus Crew, LA Galaxy, and Seattle Sounders as perennial contenders. Economically, the league continues its rapid growth: MLS club valuations reached a collective $23 billion in 2026, with an average team value of $767 million (up significantly in recent years). Top clubs like Inter Miami (valued at $1.45 billion, with revenue nearing $200–250 million annually driven by Messi) highlight the financial surge, while team-level sponsorship revenue hit an estimated $716 million in 2025 (up 8% year-over-year).

The league continues its expansion era: San Diego FC (who joined in 2025) builds on a historic first season, while the 30-team structure remains stable for 2026—no new clubs this year. Offseason storylines include high-profile signings (e.g., Germán Berterame to San Diego, Sergio Reguilón to various teams), managerial changes (new head coaches at clubs like St. Louis CITY SC), and tactical adjustments under evolving roster rules. Many teams prioritized youth development and international talent to stay competitive in a league increasingly filled with global stars.

Key dates to mark on your calendar:

MLS is Back Weekend: February 21–22 (full opening slate) Miami Freedom Park opening: April 4 (Inter Miami’s new stadium debut) World Cup pause: May 25–July 16 MLS returns with rivalries: July 16–17 MLS All-Star Game: July 29 Decision Day: November 7 MLS Cup: December (exact date TBA)

The 2026 MLS season promises plenty of drama: the potential for Inter Miami to repeat as champions, intense Western Conference battles featuring superstars like Son Heung-min and Thomas Müller (at Vancouver), and the unique challenge of restarting post-World Cup with momentum intact. With strong media economics from Apple, rising valuations, and sponsorship growth, the league is in a solid financial position heading into this pivotal year. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the league, tune in on Apple TV—the biggest domestic soccer league in North America is back and set for what could be its most consequential year yet. Kickoff starts Saturday—who do you think will lift the MLS Cup in December? ⚽