MLS Considering Revolutionary Changes to Competition Schedule

In a significant move for Major League Soccer (MLS), the league's owners have begun discussions regarding a potential shift to a European-style calendar. However, fans should not expect any changes until the 2027 season at the earliest.

Commissioner Don Garber dubbed this consideration 'one of the biggest decisions in the league's history,' highlighting the importance of the talks that unfolded during a recent meeting attended by all 30 team owners.

No Decisions Yet, But Momentum is Building

Despite high hopes, no voting took place during the meeting. Garber stated, 'We have a lot of work ahead to determine if we can align with the international calendar.' He stressed that while there is momentum, several key areas need to be addressed before any decisions can be finalized.

These include understanding the commercial impact, gathering player feedback, and addressing facility issues—factors deemed essential to successfully implementing any proposed changes.

Exploring New Competitive Formats

Alongside the calendar change, MLS is evaluating various competitive formats. This could drastically alter not just the regular season but also how playoffs are structured, providing fresh excitement for fans hungry for change.

Optimism Among Owners

Larry Berg, owner of LAFC and a co-chair of the sporting and competition committee, emerged from the meeting optimistic about the progress being made. He noted that it was a chance for the league to pitch bold initiatives and gauge the owners' responses.

Berg expressed hope that any forthcoming significant changes, including altering the calendar and competition formats, would be implemented collectively, ensuring a cohesive approach.

2026 World Cup: A Missed Opportunity?

Interestingly, the league's official stance is that no changes will take effect until after the 2026 World Cup, which some view as a missed opportunity to harness the tournament's publicity and heightened viewership to launch MLS's revamped structure.

Despite the World Cup's potential to serve as a platform for promoting MLS, executives clarified that it was never set as a strict deadline for change.

Looking Ahead: Next Steps for MLS

With the meeting concluded, MLS will now engage with corporate partners, the Players Association, and other stakeholders to explore financial implications of a possible calendar switch. The league's board of governors is slated to reconvene during the MLS All-Star Game in Austin on July 23.

As discussions progress, one thing is clear: MLS is gearing up for a groundbreaking transformation that could reshape the future of soccer in the United States.