Major League Soccer is making preparations for the 2026 season by planning to take a break during the World Cup to ensure there are no incomplete rosters throughout the competition. This decision was made to navigate the calendar efficiently and avoid scheduling conflicts.
Brad Pursel, the senior vice president of MLS game schedule management, has provided valuable insight into the planning process for the upcoming seasons. He emphasized the importance of taking a break during the 2026 World Cup, given its size and scope, especially with it being hosted in North America.
The league faces challenges every year during FIFA windows and international competitions when it comes to player availability. The ongoing dialogue with clubs is essential to address these challenges and make adjustments to the schedules for the upcoming seasons.
The regular MLS season typically extends from late February to Decision Day in October, with playoffs running from November to the MLS Cup in early December. Despite this schedule, the league will need to make adjustments to accommodate the 2026 World Cup.
While the Leagues Cup is a priority for MLS, officials may need to introduce changes or modifications to the tournament schedule to adjust to the necessary calendar changes for the 2026 season. Maintaining the excitement of this competition is crucial for both MLS and Liga MX.
In the past, MLS has honored FIFA windows during the seasons, but did not halt for the 2024 Copa América tournament hosted by the United States. This decision led to teams like Inter Miami CF competing without key international players like Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez.
Despite the challenges faced by the league, it is essential to strike a balance between accommodating international competitions and maintaining the integrity of the MLS season. While adjustments may need to be made, ensuring a smoothly running schedule is crucial for the success of the league overall.
Overall, the changes being made to the MLS schedule for the 2026 season in preparation for the World Cup demonstrate the commitment of the league to adapt to evolving circumstances and prioritize the needs of both the teams and the players. The ongoing dialogue with the clubs and careful planning by league officials will help ensure a successful and exciting season for fans and players alike.
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