For American and Canadian soccer fans, the "New Year" signifies the start of something monumental. We have officially entered World Cup Year. While Europe is in the thick of its winter grind, Major League Soccer (MLS) is waking up for its 31st—and arguably most significant—season.
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup looming just six months away, this MLS campaign will be the cultural and sporting curtain-raiser for the biggest event in the history of the sport. Here is the roadmap for the season ahead.
I. The Big Question: When is Kick-off?
The league office has confirmed the structure for the 2026 campaign. To accommodate the historic summer break for the World Cup, the league is sticking to its "Early Start" philosophy.
Preseason Training: Players will report to camp in mid-January, with many teams heading to warm-weather hubs in Florida, Arizona, and Southern California.
Opening Weekend: The 2026 season officially kicks off on Saturday, February 21, 2025.
The Format: 29 teams will once again compete for the Supporters' Shield and a spot in the MLS Cup Playoffs.
II. The "World Cup Hiatus": A Historic Break
Unlike previous years where MLS often played through international tournaments, 2026 requires a total shutdown. With many MLS stadiums (such as those in Atlanta, Seattle, and Foxborough) serving as World Cup venues, the league will take a mandatory 5-week hiatus.
The Break: Expect no MLS league matches from early June through mid-July.
The Return: The league will resume with a "Leagues Cup" style mid-summer tournament or a direct return to regular-season play as the World Cup final concludes in late July.
III. Team to Watch: The Messi Farewell Tour?
All eyes remain on Inter Miami CF. As Lionel Messi enters the final guaranteed year of his contract, the pressure is on the "Herons" to deliver the one trophy that eluded them in 2025: the MLS Cup.
The Barcelona Connection: With Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba still providing the spine, Miami remains the betting favorite. However, squad depth will be their biggest challenge during the congested 2026 schedule.
The Contenders: The Columbus Crew, under tactical mastermind Wilfried Nancy, remain the gold standard for "team-first" soccer. Watch out for LAFC and FC Cincinnati, both of whom have made significant roster moves this January to challenge the Miami hegemony.
IV. The "Audition" Season
For domestic players in the MLS, 2026 is the ultimate audition.
USMNT & Canada: Players like Miles Robinson, Walker Zimmerman, and rising young stars in the league know that their performance in the first three months of the season will determine if they make the final roster for the World Cup.
The "Next Big Export": European scouts will be flooding MLS stadiums in March and April, looking to snatch up the next young prodigy before the World Cup "inflates" their transfer value.
V. How to Watch: The Apple TV Revolution
The partnership with Apple continues to evolve. For the 2026 season, the MLS Season Pass will feature enhanced 4K broadcasting for marquee matchups and expanded "Multiview" features for those chaotic Saturday nights.
Global Access: No blackouts, no regional restrictions. Whether you are in London, Rabat, or Buenos Aires, the season is available at the click of a button.
The World Cup Integration: Expect Apple to produce significant "Road to the World Cup" content, following MLS stars as they prepare for the international stage.
Conclusion: A Season Like No Other
In 2026, every MLS match carries a little more weight. Every goal feels a bit louder. The league isn't just playing for a trophy this year; it's playing to prove that North America is ready to host the world.
The journey starts on February 21st. Are you ready?