MLS Schedule Change

Major League Soccer announced a shift in its competition calendar, aligning the league’s schedule with the world’s top soccer leagues. Beginning in the summer of 2027, MLS will adopt a summer-to-spring season format, marking one of the most significant developments in the league’s history

2027-28 MLS Season Structure

The 2027–28 MLS regular season will kick off in mid-to-late July 2027 and conclude with the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs and MLS Cup presented by Audi in late May 2028. Like many other major international leagues, MLS will observe a midwinter break from mid-December through early February, with no league matches scheduled in January.

Before the change to the new calendar, MLS will stage a transition season from February to May 2027, featuring a 14-game regular season (7 home games), playoffs, and MLS Cup. The results will determine 2027 qualification for the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, Canadian Championship, Leagues Cup, and Concacaf Champions Cup.

What should STL CITY SC Fans Know About the Schedule Change?

Why is the MLS changing its schedule?

The MLS is shifting their schedule to better align with the world's top leagues. We believe this will improve how the clubs participate in the global transfer market, reduce conflicts with FIFA international windows and summer tournaments, and move the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs into May, when there are fewer calendar conflicts and generally better weather.

When will the change take effect?

The new calendar begins in 2027, with a transition season from February-May 2027, followed by the first full summer to spring season running from mid to late July, through May 2028

How will this impact ticket prices?

This announcement is about the competition calendar and doesn’t change your current ticket pricing. We’re still working through what the new calendar means for our future ticket products and pricing. For now, it’s business as usual—your current tickets and benefits remain the same. As decisions are finalized, we’ll share clear updates so you have plenty of time to review and ask questions.

Does This Mean we Will Have More Games in Cold Weather?

MLS modeled the new calendar to avoid loading cold-weather markets with winter games. The league is adding a full January break and intends to limit home matches in December and February. Even with the shift in start and end dates, 91% of matches will still fall within the same general seasonal footprint as today. Because of that structure, CITY should see roughly the same number, and possibly only a slight increase, of colder-weather home matches as we do now, while also getting a small break from the peak summer heat.

What do Season Ticket Members Need to Know About the Schedule Change?

What does this mean for my 2026 season tickets?

There are no adjustments to the 2026 season. Your tickets and benefits will remain the same, and the season will follow the current February–December schedule

2026 Season - February 2026 - December 2026
2027 Transition Season - February 2027 - May 2027
2027 - 2028 Season - July 2027 - May 2028

What does this mean for my 2027 season tickets?

We’re working through how the new league calendar will be reflected in our 2027 and 2027/2028 season ticket offering. Full details will be shared in February during our normal renewal timeline.

What if I'm on a multiyear agreement?

For members on multi-year agreements, the impact of the new league calendar will vary based on the specific terms and timing of each contract. We’re currently reviewing those details and will provide clear, timely communication to every affected member.