Major League Soccer (MLS) is set to expand the accessibility of its MLS Season Pass in 2025, allowing fans to enjoy live matches through new partnerships with DIRECTV and Comcast. This initiative aims to enhance the viewing experience for soccer enthusiasts as the league enters its 30th season.
Key Takeaways
- Expanded Access: MLS Season Pass will now be available through DIRECTV and Comcast, in addition to Apple TV.
- Free Previews: Both DIRECTV and Comcast will offer free previews of the MLS Season Pass from February 22 to March 1, 2025.
- Sunday Night Soccer: A new featured match of the week will be introduced, enhancing the viewing experience with dedicated programming.
- Enhanced Production: MLS is centralizing its graphics workflow to improve the quality of broadcasts.
Expanded Availability
Starting February 22, 2025, the MLS Season Pass will be accessible to customers of both DIRECTV and Comcast. This marks a significant shift from its previous exclusivity on Apple TV, broadening the audience for MLS matches.
- DIRECTV: Customers can subscribe for $14.99 per month or purchase the full season for $99. Live matches will be available on channels 480 through 495.
- Comcast: Xfinity subscribers will also have access to the MLS Season Pass for $14.99 per month, with a similar free preview period.
New Features for 2025
The 2025 season will introduce several exciting features aimed at enhancing the fan experience:
- Sunday Night Soccer: A featured match will be broadcast every Sunday evening, showcasing high-profile matchups with enhanced production quality.
- Free Streaming for Apple TV+ Subscribers: All Sunday Night Soccer matches will be available for free to Apple TV+ subscribers, making it easier for fans to catch the action.
- Centralized Graphics Workflow: MLS is moving its production operations to a new facility in Stamford, CT, which will improve the consistency and quality of graphics across broadcasts.
Production Enhancements
In addition to expanding access, MLS is making significant investments in its production capabilities:
- New Partnerships: MLS has renewed its partnership with IMG, which will continue to produce live match and studio programming.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: The new production facility will feature five fully equipped studios and advanced virtual production technology, enhancing the viewing experience for fans.
- Dedicated Graphics Operators: MLS has hired full-time graphics operators to ensure high-quality graphics for both English and Spanish broadcasts.
Conclusion
As Major League Soccer prepares for its 30th season, the expansion of the MLS Season Pass to DIRECTV and Comcast represents a major step in making soccer more accessible to fans across the United States. With new features like Sunday Night Soccer and enhanced production quality, the league is poised to deliver an exciting season for soccer enthusiasts.
Sources
- DIRECTV, Comcast to Carry MLS Season Pass In 2025 – The TV Answer Man!, The TV Answer Man!.
- Major League Soccer Adds Featured Sunday Night Soccer Match to Apple TV+; Expands Availability of MLS Season Pass to Xfinity, DIRECTV; Centralizes Graphics Workflow, Sports Video Group.
- MLS Season Pass Returns to Apple TV, Adds Integrations with Comcast, DirecTV | TV Tech, TVTechnology.