MLS Schedule Change — What You Need to Know
MLS Schedule Change — What You Need to Know

Major League Soccer will transition to a summer-to-spring calendar format beginning next year in 2027. This shift will align MLS with many of the top leagues around the world. As more details are confirmed, we'll continue updating this page to help you understand how this will impact the future of season tickets at Austin FC. Check back in the coming months for the latest information.

2027-2028 MLS Season Structure 

The full 34-match season will run from July 2027 through May 2028, with playoffs concluding in May. The schedule will include a winter break, with limited matches in December and February, and no matches in January.  

Before the new calendar begins, MLS will introduce a Sprint Season from February to May 2027: 

  • Each club will play 14 regular season matches
  • Teams will face every conference opponent once (home or away)
  • The top 8 teams from each conference will qualify for the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs
  • Playoffs will be single elimination, hosted by the higher-ranked Supporters' Shield team

Performance in the Sprint Season will also determine qualification for the CONCACAF Champions Cup and Leagues Cup. MLS clubs will also participate in the 2028 U.S. Open Cup, with qualification details to be announced.

What Oak Collective Members Need to Know About the Schedule Change
What Oak Collective Members Need to Know About the Schedule Change

What does this mean for my 2027 season tickets?

Your 2027 membership will be bundled and include matches from both competitions:

  • 7 matches from the Sprint Season
  • 17 matches from the 2027-2028 regular season

For a total of 24 matches included in your Season Ticket Membership. 

What if I'm on a multi-year agreement?

If you're currently on a multi-year agreement, your dedicated Premium Service Representative will reach out directly with details specific to your plan in order to align with the new MLS calendar change.

How are payment plans being impacted?

Your current payment plan (pay-in-full, 6-month, or 9-month) will automatically apply for the new season. We will also introduce an additional option, where you can work directly with your Membership Services Representative once renewals begin to find the plan that works best for you.

What All Austin FC Fans Need to Know About the Schedule Change
What All Austin FC Fans Need to Know About the Schedule Change

Why is MLS changing the schedule?

This shift aligns MLS with the global soccer calendar, which helps improve access to the international transfer market and reduce scheduling conflicts with international competitions. 

When is this change taking place?

  • The Sprint Season runs from February to May 2027
  • The new Full Season format begins July 2027 through May 2028

How will this impact ticket prices?

This change does not impact current ticket pricing for the 2026 season. We are still evaluating how the updated calendar may affect future ticket products and pricing. In the meantime, your current tickets remain the same, and your benefits are unchanged.

Does this schedule change mean more matches in cold weather? 

Despite the calendar shift, the League has confirmed that 91% of matches will still take place on standard weekend dates, consistent with the current schedule structure. For Austin FC, the updated format is expected to mean fewer matches played in the Texas heat, with a slight increase in matches played in cooler weather conditions. 

We'll provide clear updates in advance, so you have time to review your options and ask questions.