MLS Unveils New Schedule Format for 2026 Season
The Major League Soccer (MLS) has introduced a significant change to its schedule format for the 2026 season, moving away from the traditional Rivalry Week. In previous years, a dedicated week in May was reserved for high-stakes derby matches, but starting this season, these marquee games will be spread throughout the year, beginning with an exciting match between Inter Miami and LAFC.
Building Consistent Engagement
Camilo Durana, MLS executive vice president, emphasized the league's intention behind this strategic shift. The goal is to create more consistent engagement opportunities for fans by offering high-profile matches regularly. This approach aims to enhance fan experience by allowing them to follow their favorite teams and the league with greater ease.
Durana highlighted the dynamic nature of MLS, with new storylines, player transfers, and emerging rivalries enriching the league constantly. The decision to spread out rivalry matches is seen as a way to maintain excitement and engagement throughout the season, rather than concentrating it in a single week.
Weekly Saturday Showdown and Other Highlights
A new feature of the 2026 schedule is the introduction of the Weekly Saturday Showdown, starting with a match between reigning MLS Cup champions Inter Miami and LAFC on February 21. This initiative, along with the existing Sunday Night Soccer, aims to spotlight key matchups with enhanced production, providing fans with must-see games every week.
While the traditional Rivalry Week format has been phased out, the league will still highlight several rivalry matches in mid-July, following a break for the World Cup. This period will showcase select marquee matchups, aiming to capture the attention of a broader soccer audience.
Capitalizing on the World Cup's Afterglow
With the World Cup concluding shortly before, MLS plans to leverage the heightened interest in soccer to attract new fans. Durana estimates that around 100 million people will be looking to continue their soccer journey post-World Cup, presenting a prime opportunity for MLS to showcase its brand of soccer to a North American audience.
The league's adaptation of its schedule, moving towards a more consistent and engaging format, is part of a broader strategy to grow its fan base, especially in a World Cup year. With signs of audience growth and engagement from the previous season, MLS is optimistic about the potential for further expansion.
As the 2026 season unfolds, it will be interesting to see how these changes impact fan engagement and whether the league can capitalize on the unique opportunity presented by the World Cup being hosted in North America. The ultimate goal is to solidify MLS's position in the competitive landscape of global soccer.
For those wondering when the full MLS 2026 schedule will be released, details are expected to be announced soon, providing fans and teams alike with a complete overview of what promises to be an exciting and innovative season.
