MLS to pause during 2026 season for FIFA World Cup

MLS plans to take a break during the 2026 season to accommodate the FIFA World Cup happening in North America in order to “avoid incomplete rosters throughout the duration of the competition,” according to Lizzy Becherano of ESPN.com. The length of the pause “remains undetermined.” MLS SVP/Game Schedule Management Brad Pursel said, “Given the size and scope of the 2026 World Cup, and being in North America, that is one tournament we will take a break for." Becherano noted MLS takes a summer break to participate in Leagues Cup, a joint, month-long competition between MLS and Liga MX held throughout the U.S. Pursel mentioned that the Leagues Cup will “remain a priority during 2026,” and officials may “introduce changes or modifications to the tournament to adjust to the necessary calendar.” Despite honoring several FIFA windows throughout the 2024 season, the league did not halt for the 2024 Copa América tournament being hosted by the U.S. (ESPN.com, 6/26).