The core Apple TV service is poised to elevate its live sports offerings beginning next season, according to The Athletic. The MLS Season Pass, which now necessitates an extra annual payment of $79 for Apple TV users, will be included in the regular Apple TV subscription. This modification is projected to enhance the overall value of the subscription, priced at $12.99 per month in the U.S. or part of the Apple One bundle.
In the past, only a select number of games were available without the MLS Season Pass, with recent playoff matches being an exception. Most of the season’s matches required the additional subscription, which analysts argue has limited the growth and visibility of Major League Soccer (MLS) in the U.S., especially among younger audiences. By removing the paywall for the Season Pass, Apple seeks to boost viewership and engagement with MLS.
Current projections indicate that the MLS Season Pass has roughly 1-2 million subscribers worldwide, a sharp contrast to the more than 50 million Apple TV subscribers. The forthcoming adjustment is set to greatly expand the live sports offerings on Apple TV in 2026, which will encompass not just MLS but also MLB Friday Night Baseball and Formula 1 as part of the core service. This strategic initiative is anticipated to draw in more viewers and strengthen Apple TV’s standing in the competitive streaming market.
