MLS games head to Apple TV in 2026 as Season Pass subscription ends

Major League Soccer is gearing up for a significant transformation in its broadcasting strategy as it prepares to feature all of its games on Apple TV beginning in 2026. This transition comes as Apple concludes its Season Pass subscription service, which was previously dedicated to MLS matches. The partnership between MLS and Apple was established in 2022 through a 10-year media rights agreement, granting Apple exclusive global coverage of the league. Initially, instead of integrating MLS games into its main streaming service, Apple opted to launch the Season Pass, a separate subscription specifically for soccer fans. "This idea that you could watch all of our matches in one place with a push of the button globally was unprecedented," said MLS Deputy Commissioner Gary Stevenson in a recent interview. The Season Pass, priced at $14.99 monthly compared to the standard Apple TV subscription at $12.99, debuted in 2023. Although Apple has not disclosed its subscriber figures, the initial reception of Season Pass was positive, according to Stevenson. Discussions about moving MLS content to the main Apple TV platform began as the service developed, with Apple approaching the league with the proposal. Stevenson remarked, "They came to us and said, 'Let's put it on Apple TV,' and we said, 'We're all in.' This was good news for us." While the specifics of the agreement have not been fully revealed, Stevenson indicated that the focus was on enhancing distribution and fan accessibility rather than extensive renegotiations. Apple has been strategically expanding its sports offerings, recently securing a five-year exclusive rights deal with Formula 1, which will see all races available on Apple TV starting next year. Apple's aim is to revolutionize the sports viewing experience, addressing the fragmentation caused by the rise of streaming services. During a panel discussion, Apple Senior Vice President of Services Eddy Cue noted the challenges consumers face, saying, "You used to buy one subscription, your cable subscription, and you got pretty much everything they had. Now, there's so many different subscriptions, so I think that needs to be fixed." As MLS approaches its 30th season, the league is keenly aware of the growing interest in soccer in the U.S., especially with the World Cup on the horizon. The influx of fans, particularly following global star Lionel Messi's signing with Inter Miami CF, has helped elevate the league's profile, though it still trails behind other major American sports like the NFL and NBA. According to MLS Commissioner Don Garber, while specifics on Season Pass performance remain under wraps, initial subscription numbers have surpassed expectations, indicating a promising future for the partnership with Apple.