Major League Soccer has made the decision to take a break during the 2026 season to make room for the World Cup. This break is crucial in order to prevent incomplete rosters during the competition, ensuring that all teams have their key players available. Although the length of this pause has not been determined yet, the league acknowledges the necessity of this adjustment in the calendar.
Brad Pursel, the senior vice president of MLS game schedule management, has shed light on the planning process for the upcoming seasons. He emphasized the importance of accommodating FIFA windows and international competitions such as the World Cup to avoid losing valuable players throughout the season. Looking ahead to 2025, 2026, and 2027, the league is considering making adjustments to the schedule to minimize the impact of conflicting tournaments on team rosters.
The MLS regular season typically spans from late February to Decision Day in October, with playoffs taking place from November to the MLS Cup in early December. In addition to these fixtures, the league also participates in the Leagues Cup, a month-long competition with Liga MX teams held in the United States during the summer break. While the Leagues Cup will maintain its importance in 2026, officials are prepared to make necessary changes to the tournament structure to align with the revised calendar.
Despite making efforts to accommodate FIFA windows in the 2024 season, Major League Soccer faced challenges during the Copa América tournament hosted by the United States. MLS did not come to a halt during this competition, resulting in key players like Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez being absent from their respective teams such as Inter Miami CF. Pursel acknowledged the difficulties of balancing international competitions with the league’s regular season schedule.
As Major League Soccer continues to evolve and grow, it is essential to adapt to the changing landscape of international football tournaments. The decision to pause during the 2026 World Cup demonstrates the league’s commitment to providing a competitive and engaging environment for both players and fans. By engaging in ongoing discussions with clubs and stakeholders, MLS aims to address the challenges posed by conflicting schedules and ensure the smooth operation of the league in the coming years.
The future of Major League Soccer holds exciting opportunities and challenges as the league navigates around international competitions like the World Cup. By prioritizing the needs of players, teams, and fans, MLS is poised to continue its growth and success in the world of soccer. Through strategic planning and open communication, the league will be able to overcome obstacles and thrive in a competitive sporting landscape.
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