How MLS is changing to compete with world football’s elite | OneFootball

Major League Soccer is preparing for one of the most ambitious transformations in its recent history. The goal is to position the league as a global benchmark capable of competing with Europe’s biggest powers.

One of the pillars of this change is the transition to a fall-spring calendar starting in 2027. Camilo Durana, MLS executive vice president, said in a meeting with the media that this decision aims to align MLS with FIFA transfer windows and create better opportunities for its competition.

According to Durana, "the change will help avoid extreme weather conditions in key cities during the summer months."

Unstoppable growth

Marcelo Balboa, an MLS and United States national team legend, also highlighted the evolution of the infrastructure that has accompanied the league since its creation. "Going from playing in American football stadiums to having our own dedicated venues has transformed the culture of the sport."

The 2026 World Cup is shaping up to be the major catalyst for consolidating this growth across the region. The tournament is expected to boost the league’s visibility to unprecedented levels, replicating the success of the 1994 World Cup.

Balboa also underlined the importance of identity in this process, mentioning that "the passion of Latino fans has been the driving force behind the league’s current success." This cultural connection will be vital during the World Cup.

📸 Leonardo Fernandez - 2026 Getty Images

The league already has top-level infrastructure, with more than $11 billion invested in stadiums and training centers. Many of these complexes will serve as operational bases for national teams during the 2026 tournament.

Finally, MLS wants this World Cup to leave a lasting legacy that goes beyond sport. The combination of the new calendar and the tournament’s global exposure will mark a before and after in the history of soccer in the United States.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

📸 Andrew Wevers - 2026 Getty Images