Updated November 14 with a report that Apple and MLS have revised their partnership agreement.
In 2022, Apple and Major League Soccer reached a major deal that made Apple TV the streaming provider for all league matches (local broadcasters still offered the matches on network television). However, these matches required a paid subscription. This paywall will disappear for the next 2026 MLS season, according to an announcement made by Apple and MLS.
Next season’s MLS matches will simply be part of a regular Apple TV subscription. An Apple TV subscription costs $12.99/£12.99 per month, or $99 per year. Previously, Apple offered the MLS Season Pass, which cost $14.99 per month or $99 per year (an Apple TV subscription was not required).
Although the report may seem surprising, the warning signs of change were evident. The 2026 MLS Playoffs (which are currently happening) are not paywalled on Apple TV. Earlier this year, reports indicated that MLS Commissioner Dan Garber called Apple a “tremendous technology partner,” but questions arose about whether Apple TV was the best place for the league’s efforts to expand its fan base. Apple and MLS have agreed to a ten-year agreement that begins with the 2023 season.
Sportico reported that the Apple/MLS deal will end in 2029, three years earlier than the original deal in 2032. MLS Commissioner Garber told reporters that the contractual changes are all “very positive for us.” Apple will pay MLS $858 million for the remaining years of the contract.
The changes come a month after Apple and Formula 1 signed a five-year deal for Apple TV to broadcast all F1 races. As part of the agreement, practice, qualifying, sprint sessions and Grands Prix will be available to Apple TV subscribers, and some races and all practice sessions will be available for free in the Apple TV app. F1 TV Premium will continue to be available in the United States through an Apple TV subscription for just $17 per month.
