MLS to Shift to Summer-to-Spring Calendar in 2027–28, Aligning With World’s Top Leagues.

Roger Hampel

Image: MLS

Major League Soccer has approved a historic restructuring of its competition calendar, with the league set to transition to a summer-to-spring season beginning in July 2027. The move, confirmed at the MLS Board of Governors meeting in Palm Beach, represents one of the most significant changes in the league’s 30-year history and brings MLS into alignment with the scheduling model used by most major global leagues.

The league is working with the MLSPA to finalize the transition plan. A short “bridge season” will take place from February to May 2027 to prepare for the format change.

A New MLS Calendar Cycle MLS

Under the new structure, the 2027–28 MLS season will run from:

• Mid–late July 2027 → season kickoff

• Mid-December to early February → winter break

• Late May 2028 → Audi MLS Cup Playoffs and MLS Cup presented by Audi

  
  

MLS noted that the new footprint avoids playing league matches during January, historically one of the coldest and least viable months for fixtures in northern markets.

Before the transition, the league will stage a 14-match shortened season (Feb–May 2027), concluding with playoffs and MLS Cup. The competition will determine qualification for the U.S. Open Cup, Canadian Championship, Leagues Cup, and Concacaf Champions Cup for the 2027 calendar year.

Strategic Rationale: Global Alignment and Competitive Advantages

MLS highlighted four major benefits of the calendar shift:

1. Greater integration with the global transfer market

By syncing with global windows, MLS clubs can operate more effectively in both incoming and outgoing transfers — with fewer midseason disruptions for star players arriving in the summer.

2. Stronger alignment with FIFA’s international match calendar

MLS will avoid major conflicts with international tournaments and qualifying windows, a challenge that has historically affected roster continuity and competitive integrity.

3. Elevated visibility for the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs

Playing the postseason in May, rather than during the dense autumn U.S. sports calendar, provides MLS with stronger broadcast positioning and fewer scheduling interruptions.

4. Improved player integration and development

Clubs will benefit from having new signings fully acclimated ahead of key league and cup competitions. National team coaches also noted the competitive benefit of players operating on comparable calendars.

Two-Year Review and Strong Backing From Fans and Stakeholders

The decision follows a two-year review process involving owners, executives, players, MLSPA, partners, and supporters. League research found that 92% of soccer viewers supported the transition. Fans cited better alignment with global competitions, improved player performance, and increased clarity around the postseason.

MLS also conducted weather modeling and operational analysis to ensure a viable schedule for northern clubs, aiming to reduce home matches in December and February.

According to MLS, 91% of matches during the 2027–28 season will still fall within the typical MLS viewing window seen in recent years.

Leadership Reactions

Don Garber, MLS Commissioner

“This calendar shift is one of the most important decisions in our history. Aligning with the world’s top leagues will strengthen our global competitiveness and improve opportunities in the transfer market. It marks the start of a new era for soccer in North America.”

Mauricio Pochettino, U.S. Men’s National Team Head Coach

“Aligning with the international calendar will have a huge positive impact — for players, coaches, and clubs.”

David Lee, Sporting Kansas City President & GM

“This has transformational potential. The playoffs will now take place in a less cluttered sports landscape without FIFA interruptions.”

Clint Dempsey, Former U.S. Captain

“Being aligned with the rest of the world means players are sharper when they get called into camp. It’s great for everyone.”

Brad Sims, CEO, New York City FC

“The international calendar places MLS in the best position to capitalize on the momentum of soccer’s growth in North America.”

Will Kuntz, GM, LA Galaxy

“For roster building, this is a game changer. It finally allows us to operate in sync with the global transfer market.”

Looking Ahead

Details on the 2027 transition season, 2027–28 league format, and potential Audi MLS Cup Playoffs adjustments will be announced later. MLS NEXT Pro is conducting its own assessment and will determine whether to adopt the same structure.

The calendar change follows years of record growth in attendance, expansion, and commercial partnerships for MLS, matching the league’s long-term ambition to position itself among the most competitive and globally integrated football leagues in the world.

With this shift, MLS is signaling its intention to become not only a domestic sports force but a globally synchronized competitor at the highest levels of the game.