In a significant development for soccer enthusiasts, Apple has announced that all Major League Soccer (MLS) playoff matches will be accessible to Apple TV subscribers without the need for an additional MLS Season Pass subscription. This move, first reported by Sports Business Journal, marks a pivotal shift in Apple’s sports broadcasting strategy.
Background on MLS Season Pass
Introduced in 2023, the MLS Season Pass was designed to offer fans comprehensive access to all MLS regular-season games, playoffs, and the Leagues Cup, without any blackouts or regional restrictions. Priced at $99 per season, or $14.99 monthly, it provided an extensive array of content. Apple TV+ subscribers enjoyed a discounted rate of $79 per season or $12.99 monthly. Despite its comprehensive offerings, the additional cost was a point of contention for some subscribers, especially those already paying for Apple TV+.
Strategic Implications
The decision to make playoff matches available without the MLS Season Pass aligns with recent trends in sports broadcasting. Notably, Apple secured rights to stream Formula 1 (F1) content in the United States as part of the standard Apple TV subscription, set to commence in 2026. This deal will grant subscribers access to all F1TV Premium content, both live and on-demand, at no extra charge—a service that previously cost $16.99 per month.
This approach raises questions about the future of the MLS Season Pass. By eliminating the additional paywall for playoff games, Apple may be testing the waters for a more inclusive sports content strategy. The potential benefits include increased viewership and higher advertising revenues, which could offset the loss of subscription fees.
Comparative Analysis
The broadcasting models of MLS and F1 differ significantly. MLS offers numerous games weekly during its regular season, while F1 hosts 24 race weekends annually. Financially, Apple is set to pay approximately $150 million annually for F1’s U.S. broadcast rights, compared to about $250 million per year for MLS’s worldwide rights. A portion of the MLS Season Pass subscription revenue is shared with the league, which may have influenced Apple’s initial decision to offer it as a separate package.
Future Outlook
Apple has yet to make a definitive statement regarding the continuation of the MLS Season Pass. Historically, announcements about the service have been made in February or March, suggesting that a decision may be forthcoming in the next few months. The current move to include playoff matches in the standard Apple TV subscription could be indicative of a broader strategy to integrate more sports content without additional fees.
Conclusion
Apple’s decision to offer MLS playoff matches to all Apple TV subscribers without requiring the MLS Season Pass represents a notable shift in its sports broadcasting approach. This move not only enhances accessibility for fans but also signals a potential reevaluation of subscription models in the streaming industry. As the landscape of digital content continues to evolve, Apple’s strategies will likely influence broader trends in how sports content is packaged and delivered to audiences worldwide.
