These are the key dates for the 2026 MLS season originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia
It’s an important year for soccer in the U.S.
With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, momentum and excitement will be needed to optimize the world’s biggest tournament coming on home soil. That sets the stage for Major League Soccer to deliver, as the 2026 season is getting underway.
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Lionel Messi and Inter Miami won the MLS Cup to cap off last season, and the squad has been bolstered after Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba hung up their respective cleats.
Miami will be seen as the favorite to repeat as long as Messi is managed properly, though finalists Vancouver Whitecaps, as well as LAFC and San Diego FC, will hope to make their marks.
Here’s everything to know about the 2026 MLS schedule:
When does the 2026 MLS season start?
The regular-season begins on the weekend of Feb. 21-22.
Will there be a break in MLS for the World Cup?
Yes, MLS play will pause from May 25 to July 16 for World Cup action. Games will resume on July 16-17 with rivalry matches including Montreal vs. Toronto, Seattle vs. Portland and “El Trafico” between LAFC and LA Galaxy, among others.
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When is the 2026 MLS All-Star Game?
The All-Star Game will be played on Wednesday, July 29 in Charlotte. The opponent will be announced at a later date.
When is 2026 MLS Decision Day?
The final round of regular-season play will take place on Saturday, Nov. 7.
When do the 2026 MLS playoffs begin?
After the November international break, there will be one month of uninterrupted playoff action until the MLS Cup Final. The exact schedule has not yet been announced.
