Major League Soccer (MLS) is contemplating a major change to its season schedule, potentially shifting to an autumn-to-spring format similar to European leagues. This move would break from nearly 50 years of tradition in North America, where the MLS season has traditionally been played during the summer months.

MLS Commissioner Don Garber discussed the possibility ahead of Saturday's MLS Cup championship in Los Angeles, emphasizing that while the league is considering this shift "more than ever before," it would be a complex undertaking. The proposed new schedule would start the season in early August, followed by a mid-season break, resuming in early February with playoffs taking place in May. This adjustment would align MLS with the global soccer calendar and could enhance the visibility of the league's playoffs in the U.S. media, which currently competes with other major sports like the NFL, NBA, and MLB.

Garber explained that the league has considered altering the schedule several times before but is now revisiting the idea with greater seriousness. He acknowledged the challenges of adjusting the season, citing factors like travel across three time zones, various weather conditions, and the complexities of operating a league across North America. "It's complicated," Garber said, underscoring that such a change would require careful planning.

The rising number of international tournaments, particularly in June when MLS seasons are in full swing, has intensified the league's reconsideration of its calendar. Garber noted that this issue has prompted MLS officials to delve deeper into the scheduling dilemma than ever before.

Sources indicate that discussions have extended beyond the MLS head office, with extensive consultations involving key stakeholders, including major sponsors like Adidas and broadcast partner Apple TV, as well as numerous meetings with club owners. Some MLS teams have expressed frustration with the timing of the transfer window, which closes in early August, preventing them from signing players who are waiting for the European transfer window to close at the end of the month.

In addition to the calendar shift, the league is exploring other changes, such as restructuring its divisions, potentially moving away from the current Eastern and Western conferences to a model similar to the NFL's.

At next week's MLS board of governors meeting, these calendar options, as well as possible changes to squad and salary rules, will be discussed. Garber also confirmed that MLS would pause during next year's FIFA Club World Cup in the U.S. and will shut down completely during the expanded 48-team World Cup in 2026.