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MLS Shifts to Summer: New Season Kicks Off Feb 19!
29 Oct
Summary
- MLS 2027 Sprint Season begins February 19.
- League transitions to a summer-to-spring calendar.
- Shortened 14-match season precedes playoffs in May.
Major League Soccer is set to launch its 2027 Sprint Season on February 19, marking a pivotal transition to a summer-to-spring calendar. Inter Miami, featuring Lionel Messi, will play FC Cincinnati in the opening fixture at Nu Stadium in Miami.
This Sprint Season will feature a condensed 14-match regular season for each club. The playoffs will then take place in May. This change is intended to move MLS away from its traditional schedule, aligning it more closely with European football leagues and improving transfer window timing.
The regular season concludes on May 8 with 'Decision Day'. The first full season under the new calendar will start in mid-to-late July 2027 and run until May 2028, including a winter break without matches in January.
This calendar overhaul, supported by MLS Commissioner Don Garber and USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino, is considered one of the league's most significant decisions, aiming to benefit clubs, coaches, and player development.
