MLS to align calendar with top leagues around the world
9 days ago
- #Sports-Calendar
- #MLS
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- MLS will shift to a summer-to-spring season format starting in 2027, aligning with top global soccer leagues.
- The new schedule includes a midwinter break (mid-December to early February) and aims to optimize transfer market activity.
- The Audi MLS Cup Playoffs and MLS Cup will move to May, avoiding FIFA international match windows.
- Strategic benefits include better player integration, alignment with FIFA calendar, and enhanced playoff visibility.
- A transition season in early 2027 (14-game regular season) will precede the full calendar change.
- 92% of league soccer viewers supported the shift, citing improved player performance and international alignment.
- MLS conducted weather/logistics analyses to limit northern market home games in colder months.
- MLS NEXT Pro is also evaluating calendar adjustments.
- Leaders like Mauricio Pochettino and Clint Dempsey praised the alignment with global soccer standards.