MLS and Apple Launch Next Phase of Partnership With Unified Streaming Access Worldwide.

Roger Hampel

Image: MLS

Major League Soccer and Apple have announced a significant evolution of their media partnership: starting in 2026, every MLS match will be available to stream at no additional cost for Apple TV subscribers.

The update marks the most substantial shift in the league’s broadcast strategy since the launch of MLS Season Pass in 2023. The standalone Season Pass offering will conclude after the 2025 season, with MLS moving fully into Apple’s core subscription ecosystem.

Full MLS Access With Apple TV MLS Apple

Beginning next season, Apple TV subscribers will gain access to:

• Every regular-season match

• Audi MLS Cup Playoffs

• The annual Leagues Cup

• MLS All-Star Game

• Michelob Ultra Campeones Cup

• MLS studio programming and full VOD catalogue

The partnership will continue to deliver content in over 100 countries and regions, maintaining MLS’s position as one of the few global leagues with a fully centralized, blackout-free distribution model.

The change also arrives at a critical moment ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Strategic Consolidation for Simplicity and Reach

The transition eliminates MLS’s separate subscription tier and positions the league alongside Apple TV’s broader content portfolio — including Apple Originals, Friday Night Baseball, and Formula 1 coverage in the U.S.

Apple TV will also be included with MLS full-season ticket packages, further unifying in-person and digital fan engagement.

Commissioner Don Garber noted that the update continues the league’s focus on accessibility:

“Bringing every MLS match to Apple TV takes our vision to the next level by making it easier than ever for fans everywhere to watch, connect, and be part of the game.”

Apple’s Senior Vice President of Services Eddy Cue added:

“Every match, all in one place, alongside incredible Apple Originals — it’s a win for fans everywhere.”

Reinforcing MLS’s Growth Trajectory

The announcement follows strong metrics across MLS’s 30th anniversary season:

• Increased viewership and consumption across digital platforms

• Rising matchday attendance

• Expanded international reach

• High commercial visibility driven by global stars like Lionel Messi and Son Heung-Min

By fully integrating match broadcasts into Apple TV, MLS aims to further reduce friction for new viewers while strengthening continuity for existing fans. The league positions the move as a natural step in its long-term media strategy — one emphasizing reach, predictability, global accessibility, and alignment with major international trends in centralized streaming.