**Apple-MLS Agreement Undergoing Major Transformations Amid Apple TV Reveal**
Yesterday, Apple unveiled that all matches of Major League Soccer (MLS) would be accessible through an Apple TV subscription without any extra charge. This announcement signifies a major realignment in the relationship between Apple and MLS, which is poised to see several transformations, including an earlier conclusion to their agreement.
As reported by Eben Novy-Williams and Jacob Feldman at Sportico, the streaming collaboration between MLS and Apple will now wrap up three-and-a-half years sooner than the initially anticipated decade-long duration. The adjusted contract arrives as MLS gears up to transition to Apple TV in 2026 and modify its league calendar in the subsequent year.
In line with the updated terms, MLS is set to acquire $200 million for the 2026 season, marking the final one under the existing calendar. For the condensed “sprint” season in 2027, MLS will receive $107.5 million. Following that, the league will garner $275 million for both the 2027-28 and 2028-29 seasons. These particulars were revealed by sources familiar with the agreement, who asked to remain unnamed due to the confidential nature of the information.
Initially, the partnership was intended to span from 2023 to 2032, but the revised contract will now conclude in 2029. The deal encompasses further modifications beyond the adjusted timeline:
– Apple has given up its right to terminate the agreement after the 2027 season.
– The updated terms represent an approximate $50 million increase compared to what MLS would have received under the prior arrangement through June 2029.
Sportico mentions that while MLS could possibly renegotiate a new agreement with Apple in the future, the existing changes provide both organizations with enhanced flexibility. With the 2026 World Cup set to be hosted in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, an upswing in North American interest in MLS is expected, allowing the league to assess its options with more extensive data following the World Cup.
In conclusion, the developing partnership between Apple and MLS showcases a strategic initiative to boost viewership and adapt to the evolving realm of sports broadcasting. The choice to provide all MLS matches free of charge to Apple TV subscribers is likely to enhance engagement, while the modification of the league’s annual schedule may further foster its expansion. As both parties navigate these changes, the prospect for future collaboration remains viable, with 2029 still a considerable time away in the swiftly changing streaming landscape.
