Major League Soccer and Apple have agreed to shorten their 10-year streaming deal, setting the new end date for 2029. The original agreement launched in 2023 and was set to run through 2032. League owners were briefed on the changes during meetings held this week in Florida.
Under the new terms, Apple loses its option to exit the contract in 2027. MLS leaders describe the updated deal as a strategic decision rather than a setback. The structure now gives the league more certainty as it approaches a major scheduling transition.
Revised Payments Strengthen MLS Ahead of Calendar Overhaul
The updated financial plan increases MLS earnings over the next several seasons. Payments now include $200 million in 2026, $107.5 million for the shortened 2027 season, and $275 million for both 2027–28 and 2028–29. This results in roughly $50 million more than the league would have earned under the original contract.
Commissioner Don Garber called the revised structure “very positive” for the league. The additional funds help MLS prepare for its new global-aligned calendar, which begins in July 2027. The season will now start in July, pause in December, resume in February, and finish with the MLS Cup in May.
Because the new deal ends in 2029, MLS can reenter the media-rights market with momentum following the 2026 World Cup.
Apple TV to Carry All MLS Matches in One Subscription
Apple will also place every MLS match inside a single Apple TV subscription. Fans will gain access to the full slate of competitions, including regular-season games, the Leagues Cup, the All-Star Game, the Campeones Cup, and the entire MLS Cup Playoffs—all without a separate MLS Season Pass.
The shift simplifies how viewers follow the league. It also gives MLS the ability to keep working with cable and broadcast partners after 2026 instead of moving to an all-streaming model.
A Reset Designed for Growth
The revised agreement positions both sides for long-term stability. MLS gains financial clarity throughout its calendar transition, while Apple strengthens its sports lineup by placing MLS alongside Friday Night Baseball and Formula 1 coverage.
With the World Cup approaching and interest rising, both organizations now have a cleaner path toward the next phase of their sports strategy.
