Major League Soccer (MLS) is set to undergo one of the most significant changes in league history by transitioning to a July-to-May competition calendar beginning in 2027. The move aligns MLS more closely with many of the world’s top soccer leagues, including the English Premier League, Spain’s La Liga, Italy’s Serie A, Germany’s Bundesliga, and France’s Ligue 1.
The calendar shift is expected to impact scheduling, player transfers, international competitions, and the overall structure of the North American soccer season.
When Is MLS Switching to the New Calendar?
MLS will continue operating under its current February-to-November schedule through the 2026 season, which will already feature an extended break due to the 2026 FIFA World Cup hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The transition to the new calendar will occur in stages:
- 2026 Season: Traditional February-to-November schedule.
- February–May 2027: A shortened transition season featuring a 14-match regular season followed by the MLS Cup Playoffs.
- July 2027: The first full summer-to-spring MLS season begins.
- December 2027–January 2028: Winter break.
- February 2028: Regular season resumes.
- May 2028: MLS Cup Playoffs conclude the inaugural July-to-May campaign.
Why Is MLS Changing Its Schedule?
MLS officials believe aligning with the international soccer calendar offers several competitive advantages.
Better Transfer Market Alignment
European clubs conduct most of their transfer business during the summer window. Under the current MLS calendar, teams are often midway through their seasons when major transfer activity occurs.
The new schedule allows clubs to buy and sell players during a more natural offseason period.
Improved International Competition
MLS clubs competing in tournaments such as the CONCACAF Champions Cup, FIFA Club World Cup, and Leagues Cup may benefit from having schedules that more closely resemble those of international opponents.
Better FIFA Calendar Integration
The new schedule is expected to reduce conflicts with FIFA international windows, allowing clubs to better manage player availability during national team competitions.
What Will the New MLS Season Look Like?
Instead of beginning in late February, MLS seasons will start in mid-to-late July.
The league will play through the fall before pausing for approximately six weeks during the winter.
A typical season will include:
- Season kickoff in July
- Regular-season matches through December
- Winter break from mid-December into January
- Season resumes in February
- MLS Cup Playoffs held in the spring
- MLS Cup Final in May
This format mirrors the structure used across much of Europe while still accommodating North America’s diverse climates.
How Will the Transition Season Work?
Rather than abruptly changing calendars, MLS will use a special transition campaign during early 2027.
The shortened season will feature:
- 14 regular-season matches
- MLS Cup Playoffs
- MLS Cup championship
Once completed, clubs will prepare for the inaugural July-to-May season beginning later that summer.
Will Weather Be a Challenge?
One of the biggest questions surrounding the schedule change is winter weather.
Several MLS clubs play in markets known for freezing temperatures and snow, including:
- Minnesota United
- Chicago Fire
- Colorado Rapids
- Toronto FC
- CF Montréal
- New England Revolution
- Real Salt Lake
The planned winter break is intended to minimize the number of matches played during the coldest part of the year while still maintaining alignment with international soccer calendars.
Which Leagues Already Use a Similar Calendar?
MLS will join many of the world’s top leagues that operate on a fall-to-spring schedule, including:
- English Premier League
- La Liga (Spain)
- Serie A (Italy)
- Bundesliga (Germany)
- Ligue 1 (France)
- Scottish Premiership
- Eredivisie (Netherlands)
- Portuguese Primeira Liga
The alignment could make player movement and international scheduling more seamless.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does MLS switch to the July-to-May calendar?
The first full season under the new format begins in July 2027.
Will there be a transition season?
Yes. MLS will play a shortened season from February through May 2027 before launching the new calendar.
Why is MLS making the change?
The league wants to better align with international soccer by improving transfer windows, integrating FIFA international breaks, and enhancing competition with clubs worldwide.
Will MLS have a winter break?
Yes. The league plans to pause play from approximately mid-December through January before resuming in February.
When will the first July-to-May season end?
The inaugural season under the new calendar will conclude with the MLS Cup Playoffs and MLS Cup in May 2028.
Final Thoughts
The shift to a July-to-May calendar beginning in 2027 represents one of the largest structural changes in MLS history. While the transition will require adjustments for clubs and supporters, the league believes the move will better position MLS within the global soccer landscape.
By aligning with the world’s leading leagues, MLS hopes to improve player movement, strengthen international competitiveness, and create a more consistent annual rhythm for clubs participating in both domestic and international competitions.