### Apple TV to Offer Major League Soccer Games for Free Starting in 2026 Apple has announced a significant change to its streaming service, Apple TV, which will no longer require a separate subscription fee for Major League Soccer (MLS) games starting in 2026. This decision comes as part of a broader strategy to enhance the value of the Apple TV subscription by integrating all MLS matches into the standard service, thereby eliminating the previous MLS Season Pass that required an additional payment. This move is expected to attract more subscribers and enhance viewership for MLS games, which have seen a slight decline in attendance in recent years. ### Overview of the Changes to Apple TV and MLS Subscription Structure 1. **Elimination of MLS Season Pass**: The MLS Season Pass, which previously required a $99 fee, will be discontinued. All MLS matches will be included in the standard Apple TV subscription at no extra cost starting in 2026 [https://www.cnbc.com/2025/11/13/mls-games-apple-tv-2026-season-pass-ends.html]. 2. **Integration of MLS Content**: Beginning next season, subscribers will have access to every regular-season match, the Leagues Cup, the MLS All-Star Game, and other exclusive programming without any additional fees [https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/major-league-soccer-available-on-apple-tv-in-2026]. 3. **Impact on Viewership and Attendance**: This change comes at a time when MLS has experienced a 5.4% dip in attendance, with an average of 21,988 fans per game in 2025, down from a record 23,234 in 2024 [https://www.yardbarker.com/soccer/articles/mls_apple_reportedly_doing_away_with_season_pass_for_2026/s1_17064_43063296]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Attendance Trends**: The decline in MLS attendance highlights the need for strategies to boost viewership. The league recorded a total of 11,454,205 fans throughout the season, indicating a potential market for increased engagement through free streaming [https://www.yardbarker.com/soccer/articles/mls_apple_reportedly_doing_away_with_season_pass_for_2026/s1_17064_43063296]. - **Subscriber Benefits**: Current Apple TV subscribers will benefit from this integration, as they will no longer need to pay for the MLS Season Pass, which was previously a barrier for many fans [https://www.frontrowsoccer.com/2025/11/13/no-more-mls-season-pass-apple-subscribers-can-watch-league-games]. ### Conclusion: A Strategic Move for Apple and MLS In summary, **Apple's decision to include MLS games in its standard subscription service is a strategic move aimed at increasing subscriber numbers and enhancing viewer engagement**. The elimination of the MLS Season Pass is expected to simplify access to soccer content, potentially reversing the recent decline in attendance and viewership. 1. **Integration of MLS into Apple TV**: All MLS matches will be available without additional fees starting in 2026. 2. **Potential for Increased Engagement**: This change aims to attract more viewers and improve attendance figures. 3. **Current Subscriber Benefits**: Existing Apple TV subscribers will enjoy expanded content without extra costs. This comprehensive approach not only benefits subscribers but also positions Apple TV as a more competitive player in the streaming market, particularly in sports broadcasting [https://www.theguardian.com/football/2025/nov/13/mls-season-pass-apple-tv].