Major League Soccer on Apple TV: A Game-Changing Move for Fans in 2026
In a significant update to their streaming partnership, Major League Soccer (MLS) and Apple have announced that beginning with the 2026 season, all MLS matches will be included with a standard Apple TV subscription at no extra cost. This strategic shift eliminates the need for the separate MLS Season Pass subscription, making it simpler and more affordable for fans worldwide to follow the league.
The End of the Paywall: What Changes for Fans
The core of this announcement is the integration of all MLS content directly into the standard Apple TV offering, a major enhancement to the service's value.
Enhanced Value for Apple TV Subscribers
Currently, fans must pay for both an Apple TV subscription and the separate MLS Season Pass to watch all games. Starting in 2026, the entire MLS viewing package will be bundled into the existing Apple TV subscription fee.
This means subscribers will gain access to:
Every Regular-Season Match
The Audi MLS Cup Playoffs and MLS Cup
The annual Leagues Cup tournament
The MLS All-Star Game and Campeones Cup
Exclusive studio programming and on-demand content
The separate MLS Season Pass subscription will conclude at the end of the 2025 season.
No More Blackouts, No More Hassle
The MLS on Apple TV platform has already established itself as the exclusive home for the league, operating without any local broadcast blackouts. This new move further streamlines the viewing experience, offering fans a single, reliable destination to watch every match in over 100 countries and regions.
A Strategic Play Ahead of the FIFA World Cup
This partnership evolution arrives at a critical juncture for soccer in North America. With anticipation building for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, this move is designed to maximize the visibility and audience growth of Major League Soccer.
By removing the extra subscription barrier, Apple and MLS are making it easier than ever for casual viewers and new fans generated by the World Cup excitement to discover and follow the league, its teams, and global stars like Lionel Messi.
Building Apple TV's Sports Portfolio
This integration solidifies Apple TV's growing reputation as a major destination for live sports. MLS will now sit alongside other premium content included in the subscription, such as:
Acclaimed Apple Originals (series, films, documentaries)
Major League Baseball’s "Friday Night Baseball" doubleheaders
Formula 1 races in the U.S. (also recently announced for 2026)
For MLS clubs, the change also means an added benefit for their most loyal supporters: an Apple TV subscription will be included as part of 2026 full-season ticket packages with MLS clubs.
This strategic pivot by Apple suggests a focus on making its streaming service an essential utility for sports fans, bundling premium, exclusive content rather than charging for it separately.
