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apple tv is getting mls games at Apple TV will include all Major League Soccer (MLS) matches at no extra cost starting with the 2026 season, according to a recent announcement from Apple and the MLS.

apple tv is getting mls games at

Overview of the New Offering

Beginning in 2026, Apple TV subscribers will have access to “all MLS matches” without any additional fees. This significant change marks a departure from the current model, where fans must purchase an MLS Season Pass to stream games. The MLS Season Pass has been available since the 2023 season, either as a standalone subscription or at a discounted rate for Apple TV subscribers. With this new arrangement, MLS games will be seamlessly integrated into the Apple TV subscription, similar to the upcoming Formula 1 streaming service.

Details of the MLS Package

According to Apple’s press release, the upcoming package will allow fans to watch:

Every regular-season match
The annual Leagues Cup tournament
The MLS All-Star Game
The Campeones Cup
The Audi MLS Cup Playoffs
Additional content related to MLS

This comprehensive offering aims to enhance the viewing experience for soccer fans and solidify Apple TV’s position as a key player in sports streaming.

Transition from MLS Season Pass

The standalone MLS Season Pass subscription will conclude at the end of the 2025 season. This transition reflects a broader trend in sports broadcasting, where streaming platforms are increasingly bundling content to attract subscribers. By including MLS games in the Apple TV subscription, Apple is likely aiming to boost its subscriber base and retain existing customers.

Context of the MLS Season Pass

Launched in 2023, the MLS Season Pass was a significant step for Major League Soccer, as it sought to expand its audience through digital platforms. The pass allowed fans to watch games live and on-demand, catering to the growing demand for flexible viewing options. However, the requirement for a separate subscription may have limited its appeal to some potential viewers.

With the upcoming changes, Apple aims to make MLS games more accessible to a broader audience, aligning with its strategy of integrating sports content into its existing services. This move could also help MLS reach new fans who may not have previously considered subscribing to a separate service.

Implications for Apple TV and MLS

This strategic partnership between Apple and MLS has several implications for both entities. For Apple, bundling MLS games into its subscription service is a way to differentiate itself in a competitive streaming landscape. With the rise of platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and Disney+, offering exclusive sports content can be a powerful tool for attracting and retaining subscribers.

Impact on Subscriber Growth

By including MLS matches, Apple is likely to see an increase in subscriber growth. Soccer is one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States, and the inclusion of MLS content could attract a younger demographic that is increasingly turning to streaming services for entertainment. This demographic shift is crucial for Apple, as it seeks to expand its market share in the streaming industry.

Furthermore, the decision to bundle MLS games could lead to increased engagement among existing subscribers. Fans who may have previously been indifferent to MLS could become more interested in the league, leading to higher viewership numbers and increased interaction with the Apple TV platform.

Reactions from Stakeholders

The announcement has garnered positive reactions from various stakeholders, including fans, analysts, and industry experts. Many soccer fans have expressed excitement over the news, viewing it as a significant step toward making MLS more accessible. The move has been described as a “game-changer” for fans who have long sought easier ways to watch their favorite teams.

Industry Analysts’ Perspectives

Industry analysts have also weighed in on the implications of this partnership. Some experts believe that this could set a precedent for other sports leagues to follow suit, potentially leading to more bundled offerings in the future. The success of this model could encourage other leagues to consider similar partnerships with streaming services, thereby reshaping the landscape of sports broadcasting.

Moreover, the integration of MLS matches into Apple TV could serve as a test case for how effectively streaming platforms can leverage sports content to drive subscriber growth. If successful, this model may be replicated across other sports and leagues, further solidifying the role of streaming services in the future of sports broadcasting.

Future of Sports Streaming

The decision to include MLS games in Apple TV’s subscription service also reflects a broader trend in the sports streaming industry. As traditional cable subscriptions decline, many sports leagues are looking for innovative ways to reach fans. Streaming platforms offer a flexible and often more affordable alternative to traditional broadcasting, making them an attractive option for both leagues and fans.

Challenges Ahead

Despite the positive reception, there are challenges ahead for both Apple and MLS. The sports streaming market is becoming increasingly crowded, with many platforms vying for exclusive rights to various leagues and events. As competition intensifies, Apple will need to continually innovate and enhance its offerings to retain subscribers.

Additionally, the integration of MLS games into Apple TV will require robust infrastructure to handle increased viewership. Ensuring a seamless streaming experience will be critical, as any technical issues could lead to dissatisfaction among fans and potential subscriber churn.

Conclusion

The announcement that Apple TV will include all MLS matches at no extra cost starting in 2026 represents a significant shift in how soccer fans will access their favorite games. By bundling MLS content into its subscription service, Apple is not only enhancing its value proposition but also positioning itself as a key player in the sports streaming landscape. As the industry evolves, this partnership could pave the way for similar arrangements in the future, ultimately changing how fans engage with sports content.

As the 2026 season approaches, all eyes will be on how this new offering impacts both Apple TV’s subscriber growth and the overall popularity of Major League Soccer in the United States. The success of this initiative could have far-reaching implications for the future of sports broadcasting and streaming.

Source: Original report