MLS announces key 2027 'Sprint Season' matches ahead of calendar shift

Major League Soccer (MLS) has unveiled the key matches for its 2027 "Sprint Season," which kicks off with Lionel Messi's Inter Miami facing Cincinnati on February 19. This marks the beginning of MLS's transition to a traditional autumn-to-spring calendar, a move aimed at aligning with Europe's top leagues. The truncated 14-game regular season and playoff tournament will serve as a prelude to MLS's full operational shift, set to commence in mid-to-late July 2027 and conclude in May 2028.

The season will feature no matches in January and a midwinter break, with weekly rivalry matchups highlighted in the schedule. Notable games include LA Galaxy hosting Los Angeles FC on April 10 in the "El Trafico" derby, and the Hudson River Derby, where New York City FC takes on the New York Red Bulls on May 8, marking the end of the regular season.

MLS Commissioner Don Garber emphasized that the calendar change is a significant decision for the league, following a two-year review to sync transfer activity with the global summer window and avoid scheduling conflicts with FIFA's international fixtures. The strategic overhaul was approved, with support from key figures such as England forward Kylian Mbappe, Ballon d'Or winner Lionel Messi, and women's award winner Alex Morgan, as well as US men's national team coach Mauricio Pochettino, who believes the calendar alignment will benefit clubs, coaches, and player development.