Major League Soccer (MLS) is facing a significant challenge in the upcoming 2026 season due to the World Cup. In order to avoid incomplete rosters and navigate the calendar effectively, the league has announced plans to take a break during the tournament. This decision will have a substantial impact on the scheduling and operation of MLS during that time.
Brad Pursel, the senior vice president of MLS game schedule management, highlighted the importance of planning ahead for the upcoming seasons. He emphasized the need to address the challenges posed by FIFA windows and international competitions to ensure that MLS teams do not lose key players during critical times. The league is already looking towards 2025, 2026, and 2027 to make adjustments to the schedule and minimize conflicts with major tournaments.
League Schedule and Breaks
The MLS regular season typically runs from late February to October, with playoffs extending into November and culminating in the MLS Cup in December. In addition to the regular season and playoffs, MLS teams also participate in the Leagues Cup during the summer break. This joint competition with Liga MX takes place across the United States and is an important part of the MLS calendar.
While the World Cup break will affect the MLS schedule, Pursel stated that the league remains committed to the Leagues Cup. Adjustments may need to be made to accommodate both the World Cup and the joint competition, but the goal is to continue with the Leagues Cup as planned. The league is working with partners in Mexico to ensure the success of this exciting tournament.
Challenges Faced in 2024
Despite the league’s efforts to navigate international competitions, the 2024 Copa América tournament hosted by the United States presented a challenge for MLS. Six matchdays were scheduled during the tournament, leading to teams missing key international players like Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez. Pursel acknowledged the importance of maintaining the number of match dates for the season while recognizing the impact of missing players on teams.
The 2026 World Cup will have a significant impact on the MLS schedule and operations. The league is taking proactive steps to address the challenges posed by international competitions and ensure that teams can field competitive rosters throughout the season. By planning ahead and making necessary adjustments, MLS aims to maintain its position as a top soccer league in North America despite the disruptions caused by major tournaments.
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