Major League Soccer (MLS) is currently exploring a significant calendar revamp, contemplating transitioning to a fall-spring season post the 2026 World Cup, according to information provided by various sources to The Athletic. This proposed change aims to enhance the league's involvement in the global transfer market and bring about various other advantages. While discussions are ongoing among MLS executives and team owners, the potential alteration to the league schedule could be implemented as early as the summer of 2026.

MLS Executive Vice President of Sporting Product and Competition, Nelson Rodriguez, expressed that it is still too premature to definitively outline the alterations or their scope. The focus remains on gathering data, formulating models, and evaluating the impact of such modifications. The proposed changes are aimed at offering competitive benefits such as aligning transfer windows with the European calendar and increasing the visibility of the playoffs in the crowded American sports calendar.

The consideration of transitioning to a fall-spring system would entail starting the MLS season in early August, similar to European leagues. The opening segment of the schedule would extend through mid-December, followed by a winter break expected to last around five weeks. The season would then resume in early February, proceeding through the spring until culminating in the MLS Cup in late May.

While MLS contemplates these modifications, it is also assessing the potential divisional structure and intra-conference competition, with playoff qualification determined by mid-season results. However, any calendar changes will necessitate input and approval from the MLS Players' Association to comply with contractual obligations like player vacation entitlements.

Despite the perceived benefits of the proposed changes, concerns have been raised, particularly regarding attendance, competitive overlap with other major American sports leagues, and the logistical challenges related to training environments in cold weather markets. Additionally, accommodating tournaments like the Leagues Cup and U.S. Open Cup within the revised calendar poses further logistical dilemmas.

The possible shift in the MLS calendar has prompted mixed reactions from fans and stakeholders, with contrasting opinions on the impact it may have on team attendance, fans' match-day experience, and the league's overall competitiveness. The potential scheduling conflicts with other prominent American sports leagues and the perennial appeal of summer matches both raise questions on the viability and consequences of such a transformative move for MLS.

As discussions evolve and considerations are weighed, the outcome of MLS potentially adopting a fall-spring season will substantially impact the league's operations, team dynamics, and the overall fan experience, should the transition come to fruition post the 2026 World Cup.