Major League Soccer’s Streaming Changes for 2026
In a significant shift for fans of Major League Soccer (MLS), the upcoming 2026 season will see the elimination of the Apple TV Season Pass requirement for viewing matches, according to insider reports shared with ESPN.
Access to Matches
Beginning in 2026, subscribers to Apple TV will have full access to all regular-season games, the Leagues Cup, the MLS All-Star Game, the Campeones Cup, and MLS Cup Playoffs.
This change means that the MLS Season Pass will be discontinued once the 2025 season concludes. The league’s decision follows the announcement that the playoffs for the 2025 season would be available to all Apple TV subscribers, allowing a greater segment of fans to watch crucial matches without needing an additional subscription.
Broader Reach and Future Collaborations
Notably, MLS has already broadened its reach by making over 200 regular-season games accessible, including all Sunday Night Soccer contests. This strategy aimed to enhance viewership and respond to the evolving viewer landscape.
MLS commissioner Don Garber noted in October that this broader distribution was favorable and hinted at future collaborations with Apple to fine-tune how matches will be made available moving forward.
Comparison with Other Sports Partnerships
The MLS integration into the Apple TV ecosystem mirrors other sports partnerships, notably with Formula 1, which secured a five-year exclusive broadcasting deal with Apple TV for U.S. coverage starting in 2026. Similarly, Major League Baseball has partnered with Apple TV, granting subscribers no-cost access to Friday Night Baseball.
This development in streaming sports content illustrates a significant shift in how fans will consume live sports, making it more accessible to a wider audience than ever before.
