### Major League Soccer Playoff Matches Now Accessible to All Apple TV Subscribers
In a major development for soccer enthusiasts in the United States, Major League Soccer (MLS) has revealed that all playoff matches will now be available to Apple TV subscribers, removing the requirement for the extra MLS Season Pass. This news, initially reported by Sports Business Journal, enables fans to immerse themselves in the playoffs without facing additional fees.
#### Playoff Schedule and Availability
The MLS playoff schedule starts on Wednesday, and the choice to provide access to these matches for all Apple TV subscribers is likely to boost viewership. In the past, fans needed to pay $99 per season for the MLS Season Pass—a hurdle that discouraged many casual viewers who were Apple TV subscribers. Although the Season Pass can be acquired separately from Apple TV, the dual payment requirement has been a source of frustration among fans.
#### Speculation Regarding the Future of MLS Season Pass
The decision to broadcast playoff games without the Season Pass has ignited speculation about the future of the MLS Season Pass itself. Following the recent announcement that Formula 1 (F1) will also be available to Apple TV subscribers at no extra charge, industry analysts are pondering whether the separate Season Pass structure is becoming antiquated. The F1 agreement, which permits subscribers to access all F1TV Premium content without extra costs starting in 2026, further adds to this speculation.
#### Comparison with Other Sports Streaming Models
The prevailing opinion among viewers is that eliminating the extra charge for MLS might significantly enhance viewership. Other streaming platforms in the U.S. typically do not charge additional fees for live sports content. For example, Premier League matches can be streamed via a standard Peacock subscription, showcasing a growing trend toward more inclusive sports streaming alternatives.
#### Financial Aspects
From a financial standpoint, Apple is making substantial investments in sports broadcasting rights. The company spends around $150 million each year for F1 rights in the U.S. and approximately $250 million for global MLS rights. A portion of the revenue from the MLS Season Pass is shared with the league, raising concerns about the viability of the current pricing structure.
The difference in the number of games between MLS and F1 also influences this conversation. MLS hosts about a dozen games weekly during its regular season, while F1 only has 24 race weekends annually. This difference in content availability may clarify why Apple initially chose a separate subscription model for MLS.
#### Future Outlook
Regarding the future of MLS and its broadcasting approach, Apple has yet to make any conclusive declarations. The company generally unveils its plans for the MLS Season Pass in February or March, leaving room for speculation and excitement in the months ahead.
In summary, the choice to make MLS playoff matches available to all Apple TV subscribers signifies a crucial point for soccer viewership in the U.S. It raises essential questions about the future of the MLS Season Pass and the changing dynamics of sports streaming. Fans and industry experts will be closely monitoring how Apple adapts to these shifts in the forthcoming years.
