MLS Offers Free Playoff Games to Apple TV Subscribers

NEW YORK — Major League Soccer (MLS) will allow all Apple TV subscribers to watch the league’s playoff matches for free starting this postseason. This change, effective October 19, 2025, marks a significant shift in the viewing strategy aimed at increasing accessibility for fans.

The announcement comes as MLS wraps up its regular season, with teams like FC Dallas and Real Salt Lake clinching playoff spots during Decision Day. Fans can expect to see marquee players, including Lionel Messi, who led the league in goals and assists this season.

The playoff schedule kicks off on Wednesday, featuring two Wild Card matches before the full best-of-3 Round One begins on Friday. This year’s playoffs will adopt a single elimination format for later rounds, culminating in the MLS Cup on December 6.

In addition to Apple TV, matches will be available on Fox Sports networks in the U.S. and on TSN and RDS in Canada. Apple’s strategic decision to provide free access is seen as a response to viewer feedback regarding the previously required MLS Season Pass, which many found too expensive.

Removing the Season Pass requirement is expected to boost viewership significantly. Commissioner Don Garber hinted at the need for improved accessibility, suggesting that the league has taken recent viewer data as a wake-up call. The shift should help attract more casual viewers who may have been deterred by the added cost of the Season Pass.

This season’s playoffs are critical for MLS, as they attempt to grow their audience during one of the sport’s most important periods. As of now, Apple TV has not confirmed whether the MLS Season Pass will continue beyond 2026, leaving fans eager to see how the future of soccer streaming will unfold.