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Major League Soccer (MLS) is set to enhance fan engagement and accessibility for the 2025 season with significant changes to its MLS Season Pass. In partnership with Apple, the league will now offer the streaming service through traditional cable providers like Xfinity and DirecTV, alongside the introduction of a new Sunday Night Soccer package that will be available without a subscription.
Key Takeaways
- MLS Season Pass now available on Xfinity and DirecTV.
- T-Mobile customers can access the service for free.
- Introduction of Sunday Night Soccer, featuring marquee matches.
- Enhanced production quality and centralized graphics workflow.
The MLS Season Pass, which previously required an Apple TV subscription, will now be accessible directly through Xfinity and DirecTV. This move is expected to significantly increase the league’s visibility, as fans can easily find matches integrated into their existing cable service.
Starting February 22, Xfinity and DirecTV customers will receive a one-week free trial of the MLS Season Pass. Additionally, Xfinity customers will enjoy free access to MLS 360, a whip-around show that provides live updates from various matches throughout the season.
Sunday Night Soccer: A New Viewing Experience
One of the most exciting developments for the upcoming season is the launch of Sunday Night Soccer. This new weekly feature will showcase a marquee match each Sunday evening, available for free to anyone with an Apple TV+ subscription. This initiative marks a shift from the league’s previous scheduling strategy, which primarily focused on Wednesday and Saturday night games.
The inaugural Sunday Night Soccer match will take place on February 23, featuring the new franchise San Diego FC against the reigning MLS Cup champions, LA Galaxy. This match will also be broadcast live in Times Square, further amplifying its reach.
Enhanced Production Quality
In addition to expanding accessibility, MLS is also investing in the quality of its broadcasts. The league has moved its media production operations to a new facility in Stamford, Connecticut, which will enhance the production quality of live matches. This facility will feature five fully equipped studios and cutting-edge virtual production technology, ensuring a consistent and high-quality viewing experience for fans.
The centralized graphics workflow will allow for easier customization of live graphics in multiple languages, catering to both English and Spanish-speaking audiences. This change aims to improve the overall presentation of matches and provide a more engaging experience for viewers.
Free Access for T-Mobile Customers
T-Mobile is continuing its partnership with MLS by offering qualified customers complimentary access to the MLS Season Pass throughout the season. This promotional offer will be available starting February 18, allowing T-Mobile users to enjoy all matches without any blackout restrictions.
Conclusion
With these significant changes, MLS is taking bold steps to enhance fan engagement and accessibility for the 2025 season. By partnering with major cable providers and introducing innovative viewing options like Sunday Night Soccer, the league aims to reach a broader audience and elevate the overall soccer experience in North America. Fans can look forward to an exciting season filled with action, enhanced production quality, and more ways to engage with their favorite teams.
Sources
- MLS, Apple make major changes to MLS Season Pass accessibility, Awful Announcing.
- Major League Soccer returns to MLS Season Pass on Apple TV – Apple, Apple.
- 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.
