MLS plans change to summer-spring schedule to align with top global leagues

The league, which has played from spring into late fall since its inception, touted the move as “one of the most important decisions in our history.”

November 13, 2025 at 7:47 p.m. EST

The new structure, if enacted, will see the MLS playoffs take place in May, rather than from late October into early December. (Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)To align with the world’s top soccer leagues, Major League Soccer announced plans Thursday to start its season in late summer and wrap up in the spring starting in 2027.

Since its inception in 1996, MLS has begun its seasons in the early spring and ended with its championship match in late fall. Its current 34-match regular season started Feb. 22 and…