Major League Soccer Announces Historic Calendar Shift
In a landmark decision that realigns North American soccer with the global game, Major League Soccer (MLS) will flip its traditional calendar beginning with the 2026 season. The league confirmed on November 13, 2025, that future seasons will run from July through May, marking a significant departure from its long-standing March-to-December schedule.
Aligning with the Global Soccer Calendar
This strategic move sees MLS adopting a schedule more in sync with elite European leagues and international competitions like the FIFA World Cup. The change addresses long-standing challenges Canadian and American clubs have faced, including competing in continental tournaments that follow the international calendar and managing player transfers across different league schedules.
The announcement came with Commissioner Don Garber prominently associated with the decision, symbolized by a soccer ball bearing both the MLS logo and his signature, photographed during a Vancouver Whitecaps practice on October 22, 2025. This visual underscores the league's commitment to this new direction.
Implications for Canadian MLS Clubs
For Canada's three MLS clubs—Vancouver Whitecaps, Toronto FC, and CF Montréal—the calendar shift presents both opportunities and challenges. The new schedule means these teams will play more meaningful matches during the traditional fall and spring periods, potentially increasing fan engagement during key sporting months.
However, the winter months pose significant weather challenges for outdoor soccer in Canadian cities. The league has indicated it will implement strategic breaks and potentially leverage dome stadiums during the coldest periods to ensure playability and fan comfort.
The transition to a summer-to-spring calendar represents the most significant structural change in MLS since its inception in 1996. This move not only aligns MLS with global soccer norms but also positions the league for greater international relevance as it continues to grow in stature and competitiveness on the world stage.
