Apple plans to discontinue its dedicated Major League Soccer Season Pass and fold the upcoming MLS season into the standard Apple TV offering. The specifics of the updated collaboration between Apple and MLS were initially disclosed by The Athletic, echoing the structure of Apple's October arrangement to include Formula 1 events for all users.
From the 2026 season onward, subscribers to Apple TV will gain access to every MLS match, encompassing regular-season fixtures as well as key annual competitions such as the Leagues Cup, MLS All-Star Game, Campeones Cup, and Audi MLS Cup Playoffs.
Launched in 2022, the MLS Season Pass marked Apple's boldest step into sports broadcasting at the time. Under the initial pact with MLS, Apple secured worldwide exclusive streaming rights for the league's games, bypassing regional restrictions wherever Apple TV was available.
This comprehensive coverage will persist under the revised terms, eliminating the $15 monthly fee for the Season Pass. An ordinary Apple TV subscription will suffice for following preferred teams.
Eddy Cue, Apple's Senior Vice President of Services, expressed enthusiasm in the official statement: 'We're excited to expand MLS access to a broader global audience via Apple TV next season. With every game consolidated in one spot, complemented by outstanding Apple Originals, this benefits supporters universally.'
The revised pact introduces certain adjustments for Apple, according to Sportico. The firm will increase its financial commitment, and the alliance will conclude in 2029 instead of 2032. Reports indicate MLS will receive $200 million for the 2026 season, $175 million for a condensed 2027 'sprint' schedule, and $275 million each for the 2027-2028 and 2028-2029 periods. Following that, MLS can explore options with other streaming platforms or extend the deal with Apple.
Although Apple has not captured NBA or NFL broadcasts in the manner of rivals like Amazon and Google, it continues to expand its sports portfolio gradually. Compared to initiatives like Friday Night Baseball streams, Apple's MLS and F1 engagements represent larger commitments. The five-year F1 agreement covers all Grand Prix events, including practices, qualifiers, and sprints. The MLS expansion aligns perfectly with the 2026 FIFA World Cup.