MLS 2026 season preview: Schedule, top teams, players to watch and how to get tickets

Major League Soccer enters its 31st season in 2026 facing one of the most unique campaigns in league history. With FIFA World Cup 2026 set to take place across North America this summer, MLS will navigate a midseason pause, the grand opening of Inter Miami’s new stadium, and what promises to be another tightly contested playoff race.

From MLS Is Back weekend in February to Decision Day in November, the 2026 season blends global spotlight with domestic intensity, and fans will have no shortage of must-see moments.

Here’s everything to know about the MLS 2026 season.

Key Dates for the 2026 MLS Season

The 2026 MLS season is packed with notable moments, so here are key dates to keep an eye on:

• Feb. 21–22: MLS Is Back Weekend with all 30 clubs taking the field, including LAFC vs. Inter Miami CF.

• April 4: Inter Miami CF host Austin FC in the inaugural match at Miami Freedom Park.

• May 25 – July 15: MLS regular season pauses for the 2026 FIFA World Cup across North America.

• July 16–17: MLS action resumes with marquee rivalry matches such as LA Galaxy vs. LAFC and CF Montréal vs. Toronto FC.

• July 28: MLS All-Star Skills Challenge (Charlotte).

• July 29: MLS All-Star Game (Charlotte).

• Nov. 7: Decision Day, with the final regular-season matches determine playoff positioning and award races.

Top MLS contenders ahead of the 2026 season

Will Inter Miami repeat, or will another top contender lift the trophy in 2026?

Inter Miami CF The reigning MLS Cup champions boast a star-studded roster including Lionel Messi, making them the team to beat if they stay healthy.

LAFC With a high-powered attack and strong depth across the pitch, LAFC is a perennial contender in the Western Conference.

FC Cincinnati FC Cincinnati’s rapid rise in recent seasons continues, combining a disciplined defensive core with exciting young talent eager to make a playoff push.

Vancouver Whitecaps FC Thomas Müller’s arrival added elite creativity and finishing to an already well-rounded squad, pushing Vancouver from playoff hopefuls to legitimate Cup challengers.

San Diego FC The expansion side has made waves with shrewd signings and an attacking philosophy that could allow them to compete immediately in the West.

Top players to watch in MLS for 2026

With the World Cup spotlight shining on MLS, several players could elevate their global profile this season.

Lionel Messi (Inter Miami) The 38-year-old legend continues to dazzle with unmatched dribbling and playmaking, and he’ll be pivotal for Miami’s title defense.

Denis Bouanga (LAFC) Known for his blistering pace and clinical finishing, Bouanga is one of MLS’s most dangerous forwards and a consistent Golden Boot contender.

Thomas Müller (Vancouver Whitecaps FC) The World Cup winner has instantly transformed Vancouver’s attack with relentless spatial awareness and elite chance creation since joining the Whitecaps.

Hany Mukhtar (Nashville SC) When fully fit, Mukhtar’s composure, and goal-scoring efficiency keep him among the league’s most lethal offensive players.

Notable MLS offseason additions

The MLS offseason has already delivered some headline-grabbing moves as clubs look to strengthen their rosters for 2026.

James Rodríguez (Minnesota United FC) The former Real Madrid and Bayern Munich star brings world-class creativity to Minnesota United, giving the Loons a major attacking boost.

Germán Berterame (Inter Miami CF) Inter Miami added the prolific Argentine-born striker from Monterrey, giving their high-powered offense even more firepower.

Dayne St. Clair (Inter Miami CF) Reigning MLS Goalkeeper of the Year Dayne St. Clair joins Inter Miami from Minnesota United to solidify the backline with his elite shot-stopping skills.

Cristian Espinoza (Nashville SC) Dynamic winger Cristian Espinoza moves from the San Jose Earthquakes to Nashville, adding vision and playmaking ability to complement Hany Mukhtar and Sam Surridge.

MLS 2026 ticket tips to get the best deals

With a midseason pause and several high-profile events, ticket strategy matters more than usual in 2026. Planning ahead can help you secure the best seats at the right price.

Plan for post-World Cup demand

After MLS pauses for the FIFA World Cup (May 25 - July 16), players returning from international duty can create a surge in excitement and ticket demand, especially for rivalry matchups.

Save money with midweek matches

Midweek games often offer lower prices and better availability compared with weekend fixtures, making them a great option for fans looking to save or score premium seats.

Don’t wait for Decision Day

The final regular-season matches on Nov. 7 can have major playoff and Golden Boot implications, so tickets may spike in price. Make sure to plan ahead or target less high-profile matchups to avoid last-minute rushes.

Buy early for high-demand games

Rivalry games, stadium openings, and weekend showdowns tend to sell out fast, so purchasing early gives you the best choice of seats.

Be flexible on seating options

If you’re open to different sections, you can often find better prices or upgrade options that fit your budget.

Keep an eye on team news

Player returns from injury, midseason trades, or star signings can influence ticket demand, so staying up to date can help you snag tickets before prices climb.

Why you should buy your MLS tickets with SeatGeek

Finding MLS tickets is easier when you can compare seating options and pricing in one place. SeatGeek helps fans see how different sections line up with the way they want to watch a match.

Interactive seat maps make it simple to understand where supporters’ sections, sideline seats, and quieter areas are located within each stadium. This is especially helpful in MLS venues, where the atmosphere can change significantly from section to section.

SeatGeek’s Deal Score adds quick context by showing how a ticket’s price compares to similar seats, helping buyers spot strong value without guessing. Upfront pricing also means the price you see is the price you pay, making it easier to compare options and decide when an upgrade is worth it.

Together, these tools help MLS fans buy tickets with confidence, whether they’re planning early or tracking a high-demand matchup.