<p>Tickets to see Lionel Messi make what may be his debut with Inter Miami are only getting more expensive. There is no confirmed date over when the Argentine may first don the Inter kit. In fact, Messi has yet to sign a deal with MLS as his agent (and father) works out details. However, it looks likely he will make his Inter Miami debut on July 21 against Cruz Azul. </p>



<p>Tickets to any game that <em>could </em>involve Messi are in extremely high demand. As is the case with sports tickets, high <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/tickets-for-messi-have-gone-up-1000-for-some-mls-games-20230608-WST-436652.html">demand leads to exorbitantly high prices</a>. That Miami game, a Leagues Cup tie against Cruz Azul at DRV PNK Stadium, has seen huge price changes. Initially, tickets for that game in Fort Lauderdale were as low as $29, and are now sold out. However, on reseller sites such as <a href="https://vivid-seats.pxf.io/c/330866/952533/12730?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.vividseats.com%2Finter-miami-cf-tickets--sports-soccer%2Fperformer%2F121844" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vivid Seats</a>, the lowest price for tickets is $770. That is a 2,500% increase strictly because of Messi. </p>


<table class="table5" style="border: 5px solid red">
<tbody>
<tr class="table5" style="width: 100%">
<td style="width: 70%">
<h4>Tickets to games</h4>
<p>New customers, get $20 off your $200+ ticket order. Use promo code: SOCCER20</p>
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<td style="background-color: black;vertical-align: middle" rowspan="2"><a href="https://vivid-seats.pxf.io/c/330866/1369123/12730" target="blank" rel="noopener"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/2022/04/SoccerTickets_Block-200x100.webp" alt="Soccer Tickets" width="200" height="100"></figure></div></a></td>
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<td><a class="button" style="background-color: red" href="https://vivid-seats.pxf.io/c/330866/1369123/12730" target="blank" rel="noopener"><span style="color: white"><strong>Get Discount</strong></span></a></td>
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<p>Of course, the arrival of Messi to Inter Miami is not officially confirmed. There are a number of facets to Messi’s agreement that are yet to be nailed down. For example, the clause of Apple revenue sharing on international subscriptions following Messi’s arrival is one. Also, marketing and image rights of Messi in MLS are not figured out.</p>



<p>Meanwhile, Messi is scheduled to play a friendly in Beijing for <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/argentina-national-team-tv-schedule/">Argentina against Australia</a> on Thursday, and will then take a vacation before becoming a registered MLS player on July 5.</p>



<h2>Tickets also possible for Messi debut before Miami</h2>



<p>It’s quite possible that Messi may make his MLS debut on Wednesday, July 19 at the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/arsenal-tickets-now-available-for-mls-all-star-game-20230328-WST-425601.html">MLS All Star game against Arsenal</a>, two days before the aforementioned Leagues Cup game against Cruz Azul. Given the Argentine’s popularity, and his general soccer ability, MLS wants to have Messi involved in that game. Remember that the MLS All Star Game is only available on <a href="https://tv.apple.com/channel/tvs.sbd.7000?itsct=wst_mls&amp;itscg=30200&amp;at=1010l35s4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MLS Season Pass</a> for international audiences. It could be a driving force for subscriptions if the World Cup winner takes part. </p>



<p>As of press time, the Miami-Cruz Azul game is available in the US via <a href="https://tv.apple.com/channel/tvs.sbd.7000?itsct=wst_mls&amp;itscg=30200&amp;at=1010l35s4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MLS Season Pass</a> and UniMas.</p>



<p><table class="table5" style="border: 5px solid red;">
<tbody>
<tr class="table5" style="width:100%">
<td style="width:70%">
<center><h4>Our Pick:</h4>
Includes: Every regular season game, MLS Cup Playoffs, Leagues Cup, &amp; More</center>
</td>
<td rowspan="2" style="background-color:black; vertical-align: middle;">
<center><a href="https://tv.apple.com/channel/tvs.sbd.7000?itsct=wst_mls&amp;itscg=30200&amp;at=1010l35s4&amp;ct=rvo" target="blank" rel="noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow"><div><figure class="image"><img src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/03/16064448/MLSSPRVO-200x100.webp" alt="MLS Season Pass" width="200" height="100"></figure></div></a></center></td>
</tr>
<tr><td><center><a class="button" style="background-color:red" href="https://tv.apple.com/channel/tvs.sbd.7000?itsct=wst_mls&amp;itscg=30200&amp;at=1010l35s4&amp;ct=rvo" target="blank" rel="noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow"><span style="color: white;"><strong>Sign Up</strong></span></a></center></td></tr>
</tbody>
</table></p>
&nbsp;



<p>One source from Apple’s broadcast operations spoke to <em><a href="https://theathletic.com/4610558/2023/06/14/inter-miami-messi-deal-all-star/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Athletic</a></em>, and they said Apple is keen on getting Messi involved in the All Star festivities in some capacity. However, it appears that inclusion is up to Messi. Yet, he may want to make that decision after he has had some time off this month. </p>



<p><em>PHOTO: IMAGO / Crystal Pix</em></p>



<div style="background:#f9e4ea;padding:10px;">
<h3>Guide to Major League Soccer</h3>
<div style="padding:10px;">
Here are some resources to help you get the most out of MLS Season Pass!</div>
<div style="padding:10px;">
<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/mls-tv-schedule/"><strong>TV Schedule:</strong></a> All the info on <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/mls-tv-schedule/">where and when to watch</a> every game</div>
<div style="padding:10px;">
<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/mls-season-pass-faq-20230203-WST-413216.html/"><strong>Season Pass FAQ:</strong></a> We <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/mls-season-pass-faq-20230203-WST-413216.html/">answer your questions</a> about MLS Season Pass</div>
<div style="padding:10px;">
<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/how-to-get-mls-season-pass-20230203-WST-417725.html"><strong>Sign up:</strong></a> Learn <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/how-to-get-mls-season-pass-20230203-WST-417725.html">how to subscribe</a> to MLS Season Pass</div>
<div style="padding:10px;">
<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/mls-season-pass-announcers-and-analysts-for-apple-deal-20230203-WST-416042.html"><strong>Commentators:</strong></a> Check out <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/mls-season-pass-announcers-and-analysts-for-apple-deal-20230203-WST-416042.html">who&apos;s</a> calling the action for the MLS season</div>
<div style="padding:10px;">
<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/how-to-watch-mls-season-pass-on-android-20230203-WST-416910.html"><strong>Android users</strong></a> Tips for fans <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/how-to-watch-mls-season-pass-on-android-20230203-WST-416910.html">Android users</a> on how to watch MLS Season Pass</div>
</div>


Tickets for Messi debut with Miami exceed 2500% of original cost

Tickets to see Lionel Messi make his debut with Inter Miami are only getting more expensive, even though there is no confirmed date or game.

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<p>This summer’s <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/6-biggest-soccer-teams-in-world-to-play-in-us-summer-tourney-20230512-WST-432626.html">Soccer Champions Tour</a> will compete directly for viewers and popularity with the revamped Leagues Cup. The two competitions overlap in kickoff dates, making for a battle over which can pull in the audiences. </p>



<p>In one corner is the royalty of the sport. Barcelona, Real Madrid, Juventus and Milan each have three games in the United States. Arsenal and Manchester United also feature. All combined, it’ll be the hottest <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/schedule-of-soccer-friendlies-in-us-this-summer/">soccer tickets in America</a> this summer. </p>



<p>That set of eight games goes against an entire tournament involving teams in MLS and Liga MX. Unlike the Soccer Champions Tour, the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/leagues-cup-tv-schedule/">Leagues Cup</a> is a competition with legitimate consequences. Berths in the CONCACAF Champions League is one. Yet, this is one of the best opportunities to directly compare the Mexican club scene to the American one.</p>



<p>The only challenge is these games happen at the same time. The first games for the Leagues Cup are July 21. However, in order to spread out some of the action to potentially get more viewers, there are a handful of group stage games each day as opposed to making them all at the same time. Also, there are three teams in each Leagues Cup group, which makes scheduling a little more complex.</p>



<h2>Overlapping kickoff times in Soccer Champions Tour and Leagues Cup</h2>



<p>For example, look at the first games of the Soccer Champions Tour:</p>



<p>On Saturday, July 22, FC Barcelona plays Juventus in a rematch of the 2015 Champions League Final. On the same night, there are five Leagues Cup games. New England plays the New York Red Bulls, Montreal hosts Pumas, Philadelphia welcomes Tijuana, Seattle travels to Salt Lake and Portland faces San Jose.</p>



<p>These are interesting games, sure. Given the novelty of a tournament like the Leagues Cup, it will be interesting to see how these games shake out. As seen in the US Open Cup, or even grander competitions like the FA Cup or Champions League, it is not always the team to perform well in the league that hits the stride in the cup. </p>



<p>Although they are interesting games given the circumstances, the <em>casual</em> soccer fan may see Barcelona playing Juventus and be more interested in that game. With the NFL, NBA and NHL seasons all in their offseason, it may be more likely that an ordinary sports fan puts that game on in the evening. </p>



<p>Part of that certainly comes from exposure. Every single game of the Leagues Cup competition is available on <a href="https://tv.apple.com/channel/tvs.sbd.7000?itsct=wst_mls&amp;itscg=30200&amp;at=1010l35s4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MLS Season Pass</a>. There will be select games on TV, too, as <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/univision-acquires-leagues-cup-rights-but-passes-on-mls-20221213-WST-412190.html">Univision broadcasts select games</a> throughout the competition, and some games will be on UniMás. However, the majority of games are available exclusively through MLS Season Pass. </p>



<p><table class="table5" style="border: 5px solid red;">
<tbody>
<tr class="table5" style="width:100%">
<td style="width:70%">
<center><h4>Our Pick:</h4>
Includes: Every regular season game, MLS Cup Playoffs, Leagues Cup, &amp; More</center>
</td>
<td rowspan="2" style="background-color:black; vertical-align: middle;">
<center><a href="https://tv.apple.com/channel/tvs.sbd.7000?itsct=wst_mls&amp;itscg=30200&amp;at=1010l35s4&amp;ct=rvo" target="blank" rel="noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow"><div><figure class="image"><img src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/03/16064448/MLSSPRVO-200x100.webp" alt="MLS Season Pass" width="200" height="100"></figure></div></a></center></td>
</tr>
<tr><td><center><a class="button" style="background-color:red" href="https://tv.apple.com/channel/tvs.sbd.7000?itsct=wst_mls&amp;itscg=30200&amp;at=1010l35s4&amp;ct=rvo" target="blank" rel="noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow"><span style="color: white;"><strong>Sign Up</strong></span></a></center></td></tr>
</tbody>
</table></p>
&nbsp;



<p>The Soccer Champions Tour games, on the other hand, do not have TV coverage details out yet. Experts such as soccer reporter Bob Williams (on this week’s <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/podcast/">World Soccer Talk Podcast</a>) predict that the TV coverage may end up on ESPN, CBS or both. That is where to find LaLiga and Serie A, respectively, which make up the four main teams in the competition. ESPN and CBS are far more accessible than MLS Season Pass.</p>



<h5>Proximity of games also a potential threat</h5>



<p>Something else to consider is the fact that, for many Americans, this is a rare chance to see these top teams. Las Vegas, Orlando, Dallas, Los Angeles and the San Francisco Bay Area are not new to hosting these top teams. <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/schedule-of-soccer-friendlies-in-us-this-summer/">Each of those cities hosted games</a> in the Soccer Champions Tour <a href="https://web.archive.org/web/20220727003706/https://www.soccerchampionstour.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">last year</a>. Regardless, fans will travel from around the country to see these significant games. </p>



<p>Looking at the schedules, one day of concern for the Leagues Cup could be Saturday, July 29. This is the day of El Clasico at AT&amp;T Stadium in Arlington, TX. That same day, there are games in Austin and Atlanta, both of which are fairly close to Dallas. Fans in Texas or the greater south would have to decide if they want to see Austin FC play Juarez or el Clásico in the United States.</p>



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<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="SOCCER CHAMPIONS TOUR invades America 🇺🇸" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/g2acPW-h6s8?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
</div></figure>



<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n8QBdJBkO8k" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fan attendance</a> and the emotion involved with the games could play a major role in how well this new format and experience looks between Major League Soccer and Liga MX.</p>



<h2>2023 Soccer Champions Tour Schedule:</h2>



<p>Saturday, July 22 <strong>— </strong>FC Barcelona vs. Juventus <strong>— </strong>Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CA —&nbsp;<a href="https://vivid-seats.pxf.io/c/330866/952533/12730?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.vividseats.com%2Fsoccer-champions-tour-tickets-levis-stadium-7-22-2023--sports-soccer%2Fproduction%2F4418404" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Find tickets</a></p>



<p><br>Sunday, July 23 <strong>—</strong> Real Madrid vs. AC Milan <strong>—&nbsp;</strong>The Rose Bowl Stadium, Pasadena, CA —&nbsp;<a href="https://vivid-seats.pxf.io/c/330866/952533/12730?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.vividseats.com%2Fsoccer-champions-tour-tickets-rose-bowl-stadium-7-23-2023--sports-soccer%2Fproduction%2F4418409" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Find tickets</a></p>



<p><br>Wednesday, July 26 <strong>—</strong> Arsenal vs. FC Barcelona <strong>—&nbsp;</strong>SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, CA —&nbsp;<a href="https://vivid-seats.pxf.io/c/330866/952533/12730?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.vividseats.com%2Fsoccer-champions-tour-tickets-sofi-stadium-7-26-2023--sports-soccer%2Fproduction%2F4418419" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Find tickets</a></p>



<p><br>Wednesday, July 26 <strong>—&nbsp;</strong>Real Madrid vs. Manchester United <strong>—&nbsp;</strong>NRG Stadium, Houston, TX —&nbsp;<a href="https://vivid-seats.pxf.io/c/330866/952533/12730?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.vividseats.com%2Fsoccer-champions-tour-tickets-nrg-stadium-7-26-2023--sports-soccer%2Fproduction%2F4418421" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Find tickets</a></p>



<p><br>Thursday, July 27 <strong>—&nbsp;</strong>Juventus vs. AC Milan <strong>—&nbsp;</strong>Dignity Health Sports Park, Carson, CA —&nbsp;<a href="https://vivid-seats.pxf.io/c/330866/952533/12730?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.vividseats.com%2Fsoccer-champions-tour-tickets-dignity-health-sports-park-7-27-2023--sports-soccer%2Fproduction%2F4418422" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Find tickets</a></p>



<p><br>Saturday, July 29 <strong>—&nbsp;</strong>FC Barcelona vs. Real Madrid <strong>—&nbsp;</strong>AT&amp;T Stadium, Arlington, TX —&nbsp;<a href="https://vivid-seats.pxf.io/c/330866/952533/12730?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.vividseats.com%2Fsoccer-champions-tour-tickets-att-stadium-7-29-2023--sports-soccer%2Fproduction%2F4418423" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Find tickets</a></p>



<p><br>Tuesday, August 1 <strong>—&nbsp;</strong>AC Milan vs. FC Barcelona <strong>—&nbsp;</strong>Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas, NV —&nbsp;<a href="https://vivid-seats.pxf.io/c/330866/952533/12730?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.vividseats.com%2Fsoccer-champions-tour-tickets-allegiant-stadium-8-1-2023--sports-soccer%2Fproduction%2F4418426" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Find tickets</a></p>



<p><br>Wednesday, August 2 <strong>—&nbsp;</strong>Juventus vs. Real Madrid <strong>—&nbsp;</strong>Camping World Stadium, Orlando, FL —&nbsp;<a href="https://vivid-seats.pxf.io/c/330866/952533/12730?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.vividseats.com%2Fsoccer-champions-tour-tickets-camping-world-stadium-8-2-2023--sports-soccer%2Fproduction%2F4418424" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Find tickets</a></p>



<p></p>



<p><em>Photo: Imago/Marca</em></p>


Soccer Champions Tour goes head to head against Leagues Cup

This summer will have a great battle, but not between two teams. The Soccer Champions Tour and the Leagues Cup go head to head in the US.

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<p>Whether this week’s <a href="https://twitter.com/MLSGoneWild/status/1642933981782982675" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">report</a> is true or not that MLS Season Pass subscriptions are falling well below the league’s own projections is irrelevant. Apple countered, without revealing any metrics, that it was <a href="https://twitter.com/HowieLongShort/status/1643969319401824258" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">very happy with the progress</a>. Honestly, though, it’s too early in the 10-year partnership to begin panicking. Still, there are some cracks that are starting to appear. In short, MLS Season Pass would improve if changes are made.</p>



<p>For instance, is MLS willing to make changes or to recognize its own weaknesses in the way the league format is structured? Apple, as a company, encourages the unvarnished truth from its customers, so the tech giant can continue to iterate its products and services. In contrast, in the way that MLS operates, the league has historically been very insular and guarded, rarely listening to the opinions of its customers. Instead, under a single entity system, league executives serve the team owners who each own a share in the league as a franchisee.</p>



<p>Bottom line, is the league willing to open itself up to finally listen and make improvements that can help it improve? Only time will tell.</p>



<h2>MLS faces challenges of its own making</h2>



<p>MLS faces some very unique challenges. First, its fanbase are more fickle and are less likely to be hardcore soccer fans. Yes, they have their favorite local team to watch, but they’re not as interested —&nbsp;as say a fan of a Premier League club —&nbsp;in watching the rest of the teams in the league. Hence, I would argue that fair weather fans of MLS teams are less likely to pay the <a href="https://tv.apple.com/channel/tvs.sbd.7000?itsct=wst_mls&amp;itscg=30200&amp;at=1010l35s4&amp;ct=improvemls" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">$99 subscription cost</a> than fans of teams from other leagues.</p>



<p>Second, most of the MLS fans who are already hardcore already receive a free subscription to MLS Season Pass with their season ticket purchased from their local team. That’s great for those fans who enjoy watching <a href="https://tv.apple.com/channel/tvs.sbd.7000?itsct=wst_mls&amp;itscg=30200&amp;at=1010l35s4&amp;ct=challenges" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MLS Season Pass</a>. However, they are not the target audience for Apple TV’s MLS Season Pass. MLS and Apple want to reach the casual fans. Those who have an interest in soccer, but haven’t subscribed yet. But with the regular season between April and the end of June having <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/mls-season-pass-honeymoon-period-is-over-now-what-20230401-WST-425640.html">very little meaning</a>, what incentive do soccer fans have in subscribing even if <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/mls-creates-appointment-viewing-with-mls-season-pass-20230313-WST-422294.html">MLS Season Pass has been fun to watch</a>? If you’re not a fan of one of the 29 teams, why should you watch in April, May and June?</p>



<p>There are reasons to be more optimistic in July. Leagues Cup, the annual competition between Liga MX and MLS, could be the pinnacle of the entire MLS 2023 season. All of the games from the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/leagues-cup-tv-schedule/">Leagues Cup</a> from July 21 through August 19 are on MLS Season Pass. This could end up being a runaway hit for Major League Soccer. But Leagues Cup faces stiff competition. Barcelona and Real Madrid are working on scheduling an El Clásico this summer in Las Vegas, <a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/real-madrid-espreal_madrid/story/4873772/real-madrid-barcelona-want-another-preseason-clasico-in-united-states-sources" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">per ESPN</a>. Plus, among several of the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/schedule-of-soccer-friendlies-in-us-this-summer/">foreign clubs playing in the United States</a> this July include Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Borussia Dortmund and Wrexham AFC.</p>



<p><table class="table5" style="border: 5px solid red;">
<tbody>
<tr class="table5" style="width:100%">
<td style="width:70%">
<center><h4>Our Pick:</h4>
Includes: Every regular season game, MLS Cup Playoffs, Leagues Cup, &amp; More</center>
</td>
<td rowspan="2" style="background-color:black; vertical-align: middle;">
<center><a href="https://tv.apple.com/channel/tvs.sbd.7000?itsct=wst_mls&amp;itscg=30200&amp;at=1010l35s4&amp;ct=rvo" target="blank" rel="noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow"><div><figure class="image"><img src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/03/16064448/MLSSPRVO-200x100.webp" alt="MLS Season Pass" width="200" height="100"></figure></div></a></center></td>
</tr>
<tr><td><center><a class="button" style="background-color:red" href="https://tv.apple.com/channel/tvs.sbd.7000?itsct=wst_mls&amp;itscg=30200&amp;at=1010l35s4&amp;ct=rvo" target="blank" rel="noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow"><span style="color: white;"><strong>Sign Up</strong></span></a></center></td></tr>
</tbody>
</table></p>
&nbsp;



<h2>How can MLS become more relevant?</h2>



<p>MLS, as the league format is currently structured, does Apple TV no favors.</p>



<p>Looking at the English Premier League, as a comparison, there are two main reasons why its the most popular English-language soccer league in the United States. First, every game matters throughout the entire season. That means that all 10 months are a must-watch. Second, every season has the intrigue of promotion and relegation. In the United States, neutral fans are often glued to relegation battles, as well as the Championship Playoff Final. For soccer fans, the aspect of promotion and relegation is one of the main reasons why we love the sport so much. It’s no coincidence that the story arc in both hit shows <em>Ted Lasso </em>and <em>Welcome to Wrexham </em>is promotion and relegation.</p>



<p>In MLS, we can argue that the must-watch months during the nine month season are March and August through November. That translates to 55% of the entire season. Even if we add July to that equation for Leagues Cup, it’s still 66% of the entire season compared to the Premier League where 100% of the season is relevant.</p>



<p>The way for a MLS season to become more relevant (and thus more successful for MLS Season Pass) is to change the format. Instead of restricting itself to having the most important games of the season scheduled for the last three months of the season, the league could go with a proven model. Almost every other soccer league in the world has a format where the teams that achieve the most number of points in the season win the competition. With MLS having 29 teams and two conferences, there would be an Eastern Conference winner and a Western Conference winner. And then both teams could face each other to crown a MLS Cup champion.</p>



<p>If MLS makes every game matter, it offers fans more reasons to subscribe. </p>



<p>However, if MLS wants to stick to its American sports league format akin to NFL and MLB, there is a compromise. Copy the Liga MX league where there is a spring season as well as a fall season. At the end of each spring and fall season, there are playoffs. By splitting the season into two, it keeps fans tuned in without having a lull like MLS has between April and the end of June.</p>



<p>Ever since <a href="https://tv.apple.com/channel/tvs.sbd.7000?itsct=wst_mls&amp;itscg=30200&amp;at=1010l35s4&amp;ct=improvemls" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MLS Season Pass</a> was first announced, we’ve been big believers that the streaming service is a big win for soccer fans and cord-cutters. Major League Soccer has the opportunity to make MLS Season Pass a success. But in order to do so, the league and its fans need to be honest with themselves and to recognize what it needs to do to grow. Apple TV has provided the tools, now it’s up to MLS to make the changes beginning next season.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="Can MLS, Apple and CBS succeed with their soccer offerings?" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9ZTOr_ovlqk?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
</div></figure>


MLS Season Pass would improve if MLS changes its format

Whether this week's report is true or not that MLS Season Pass subscriptions are falling well below the league's own projections is irrelevant. Apple countered, without revealing any metrics, that it was very happy with the progress. Honestly, though, it's too early in the 10-year partnership to begin panicking. Still, there are some cracks that [&hellip;]

MLS Season Pass would improve if Major League Soccer is honest with itself and makes the necessary changes to be more relevant.

MLS Season Pass would improve if MLS changes its format - World Soccer Talk

<p>While Major League Soccer has a massive streaming deal, MLS has also acquired linear TV rights from both FOX and Univision. The entities announced a four-year deal, even though MLS’s streaming deal with <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/apple-mls-announce-season-pass-for-2023-season-20221116-WST-408593.html">MLS Season Pass</a> on Apple is a <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/10-things-we-learned-about-mls-and-apple-tv-deal-20221028-WST-406118.html">10-year agreement</a>.</p>



<p>FOX Sports’s channels, namely FOX, FS1 and FOX Deportes, have exclusive English- and Spanish-language TV broadcasts of an average of 34 regular season and eight MLS Cup Playoff matches each season. Same goes for the MLS Cup Final. The linear TV home of that for the next four years is FOX for English-language broadcasts, and FOX Deportes for Spanish.</p>



<p>Noticeably, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/univision-acquires-leagues-cup-rights-but-passes-on-mls-20221213-WST-412190.html">Univision is not<strong> </strong>part of the deal</a> with MLS games. However, that does not mean MLS teams entirely exit the channel. Instead, Leagues Cup games, which involve all MLS and Liga MX teams, have a <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/univision-acquires-leagues-cup-rights-but-passes-on-mls-20221213-WST-412190.html">linear Spanish-language home on Univision</a>. Select games are also available on UniMás and TUDN.</p>


<p><table class="table5" style="border: 5px solid red;">
<tbody>
<tr class="table5" style="width:100%">
<td style="width:70%">
<center><h4>Our Pick:</h4>
Includes: Every regular season game, MLS Cup Playoffs, Leagues Cup, &amp; More</center>
</td>
<td rowspan="2" style="background-color:black; vertical-align: middle;">
<center><a href="https://tv.apple.com/channel/tvs.sbd.7000?itsct=wst_mls&amp;itscg=30200&amp;at=1010l35s4&amp;ct=rvo" target="blank" rel="noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow"><div><figure class="image"><img src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/03/16064448/MLSSPRVO-200x100.webp" alt="MLS Season Pass" width="200" height="100"></figure></div></a></center></td>
</tr>
<tr><td><center><a class="button" style="background-color:red" href="https://tv.apple.com/channel/tvs.sbd.7000?itsct=wst_mls&amp;itscg=30200&amp;at=1010l35s4&amp;ct=rvo" target="blank" rel="noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow"><span style="color: white;"><strong>Sign Up</strong></span></a></center></td></tr>
</tbody>
</table></p>
&nbsp;


<p>For English-language Leagues Cup coverage, FOX’s channels have linear broadcasts of those games. The linear channels carry 10 group stage, four round of 32 and two round of 16 clashes. Notably, the Leagues Cup Final does not have English-language linear TV coverage. Instead, that is available exclusively through the <a href="https://tv.apple.com/channel/tvs.sbd.7000?itsct=wst_mls&amp;itscg=30200&amp;at=1010l35s4"" target="blank" rel="noopener">MLS Season Pass</a>.</p>



<p>Of course, all MLS and Leagues Cup games are available via streaming from the <a href="https://tv.apple.com/channel/tvs.sbd.7000?itsct=wst_mls&amp;itscg=30200&amp;at=1010l35s4"" target="blank" rel="noopener">MLS Season Pass</a> from Apple. This comes at a price point of $14.99 per month or $99 per season.</p>



<h2>MLS announces linear TV deals with FOX and Univision</h2>



<p>It is an unclear future for Major League Soccer. It no longer has games on ESPN, a home for the league since its inception. Also, the lack of Univision is the first time it is not part of the <a href="https://www.inquirer.com/soccer/mls-apple-fox-univision-espn-20221212.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MLS-specific deal since 2007</a>. Now, all actual league games on TV run through FOX. </p>



<p>As stated, each regular season has 34 games on FOX, FS1 or FOX Deportes. Moreover, 15 of those regular season games are on the FOX channel, which is an OTA channel. Additionally, there are eight Audi MLS Cup Playoff matches on those three channels. However, MLS has had discussion over <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/mls-eyes-new-playoff-format-for-2023-20221026-WST-405812.html">changing its playoff structure</a>, bringing the total number of games up to what could be over 30 by this upcoming season. Consequently, there would be just a quarter of games available to linear viewers.</p>



<p><em>Photo credit: IMAGO / Icon Sportswire</em></p>


<div style="background:#f9e4ea;padding:10px;">
<h3>Guide to Major League Soccer</h3>
<div style="padding:10px;">
Here are some resources to help you get the most out of MLS Season Pass!</div>
<div style="padding:10px;">
<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/mls-tv-schedule/"><strong>TV Schedule:</strong></a> All the info on <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/mls-tv-schedule/">where and when to watch</a> every game</div>
<div style="padding:10px;">
<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/mls-season-pass-faq-20230203-WST-413216.html/"><strong>Season Pass FAQ:</strong></a> We <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/mls-season-pass-faq-20230203-WST-413216.html/">answer your questions</a> about MLS Season Pass</div>
<div style="padding:10px;">
<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/how-to-get-mls-season-pass-20230203-WST-417725.html"><strong>Sign up:</strong></a> Learn <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/how-to-get-mls-season-pass-20230203-WST-417725.html">how to subscribe</a> to MLS Season Pass</div>
<div style="padding:10px;">
<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/mls-season-pass-announcers-and-analysts-for-apple-deal-20230203-WST-416042.html"><strong>Commentators:</strong></a> Check out <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/mls-season-pass-announcers-and-analysts-for-apple-deal-20230203-WST-416042.html">who&apos;s</a> calling the action for the MLS season</div>
<div style="padding:10px;">
<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/how-to-watch-mls-season-pass-on-android-20230203-WST-416910.html"><strong>Android users</strong></a> Tips for fans <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/how-to-watch-mls-season-pass-on-android-20230203-WST-416910.html">Android users</a> on how to watch MLS Season Pass</div>
</div>

MLS picks up linear TV deals with FOX and Univision

MLS announced its plans for linear TV coverage, with FOX and Univision both featuring MLS sides throughout the season, but in varying ways.

<p>Univision will broadcast Leagues Cup games beginning in 2023. It will not, however, do the same for Major League Soccer.</p>



<p>Univision will have linear rights to the package of Leagues Cup games, according to the <a href="https://www.inquirer.com/soccer/mls-apple-fox-univision-espn-20221212.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philadelphia Inquirer’s Jonathan Tannenwald</a>. Featuring Liga MX against Major League Soccer teams battling each other, the Leagues Cup Final appears on Univision. Currently, that is scheduled for August 19. In total, there are 47 teams competing, and that encompasses all of MLS and Liga MX in the competition.</p>



<p>To begin with, Apple <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/2022/06/14/mls-signs-10-year-deal-with-apple-tv-in-global-deal/">acquired the rights</a> to both MLS and Leagues Cup action for 2023 through 2032. The new MLS broadcaster allows fans to watch both English- and Spanish-language coverage on the same platform. Furthermore, Apple’s <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/apple-mls-announce-season-pass-for-2023-season-20221116-WST-408593.html">MLS Season Pass</a> is a paid subscription, so this is quite a departure for MLS compared to the previous FOX, ESPN and Univision deal.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Breaking news tonight – <br><br>I am told that Univision will not carry MLS regular-season and playoff games in the new era of broadcast rights that starts next year.<br><br>Details here, and more tidbits:<a href="https://t.co/WYVzZ05LgO">https://t.co/WYVzZ05LgO</a> <a href="https://t.co/p4d7KOY4ND">pic.twitter.com/p4d7KOY4ND</a></p>— Jonathan Tannenwald (@thegoalkeeper) <a href="https://twitter.com/thegoalkeeper/status/1602488789284388864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2022</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<p>The over-the-air channel Univision, itself, will not carry all the Spanish-language TV games for Leagues Cup. The provider designates some games to UniMás. While UniMás is on cable, UniMás is over-the-air in select cities.</p>



<p>Most expect the Leagues Cup to be a success. The new competition incorporates top teams in the United States, Mexico and Canada, pulling in that wide range of audiences.</p>



<h2>Univision in on Leagues Cup, out on MLS</h2>



<p>While Univision does have TV broadcasts of the Leagues Cup, it is not going to broadcast Spanish-language MLS games on TV for the first time since 2006. The provider was also the first home of Spanish TV coverage back in 1996 to 1999. Then, it reappeared for MLS in 2007, broadcasting games up through this past season.</p>



<p>Part of the reason Univision is out on MLS is because of the provider’s desire to <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/vix-soccer-spanish-language-fans-20220217-CMS-371676.html">air games on ViX+</a>, its designated streaming platform. Univision wanted to broadcast games exclusively on ViX+. However, as Apple TV+ has the Spanish-language streaming coverage for <em>all </em>MLS games in the new deal, there is no available <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/2022/07/03/vix-plus-pricing-details/">audience for ViX+</a> in that regard. Essentially, it would cannibalize itself by not maximizing potential audiences. </p>


<h4>Recommended viewing option:</h4>
<p><table class="table5" style="border: 5px solid red;">
<tbody>
<tr class="table5" style="width:100%">
<td style="width:70%">
<center><h4>Our Pick:</h4>
Includes: Every regular season game, MLS Cup Playoffs, Leagues Cup, &amp; More</center>
</td>
<td rowspan="2" style="background-color:black; vertical-align: middle;">
<center><a href="https://tv.apple.com/channel/tvs.sbd.7000?itsct=wst_mls&amp;itscg=30200&amp;at=1010l35s4&amp;ct=rvo" target="blank" rel="noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow"><div><figure class="image"><img src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/03/16064448/MLSSPRVO-200x100.webp" alt="MLS Season Pass" width="200" height="100"></figure></div></a></center></td>
</tr>
<tr><td><center><a class="button" style="background-color:red" href="https://tv.apple.com/channel/tvs.sbd.7000?itsct=wst_mls&amp;itscg=30200&amp;at=1010l35s4&amp;ct=rvo" target="blank" rel="noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow"><span style="color: white;"><strong>Sign Up</strong></span></a></center></td></tr>
</tbody>
</table></p>
&nbsp;


<p>This comes shortly after <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/espn-unlikely-to-renew-mls-tv-deal-speculates-industry-analyst-20221207-WST-411622.html">ESPN pulled out of broadcasting English-language MLS games on TV</a>, a partnership that lasted the 26-year history of Major League Soccer. </p>



<p>Both Univision and ESPN will not have TV broadcasts of Major League Soccer for the regular season and playoffs. </p>



<p><em>PHOTO: IMAGO / ZUMA Wire</em></p>


<div style="background:#f9e4ea;padding:10px;">
<h3>Guide to Major League Soccer</h3>
<div style="padding:10px;">
Here are some resources to help you get the most out of MLS Season Pass!</div>
<div style="padding:10px;">
<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/mls-tv-schedule/"><strong>TV Schedule:</strong></a> All the info on <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/mls-tv-schedule/">where and when to watch</a> every game</div>
<div style="padding:10px;">
<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/mls-season-pass-faq-20230203-WST-413216.html/"><strong>Season Pass FAQ:</strong></a> We <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/mls-season-pass-faq-20230203-WST-413216.html/">answer your questions</a> about MLS Season Pass</div>
<div style="padding:10px;">
<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/how-to-get-mls-season-pass-20230203-WST-417725.html"><strong>Sign up:</strong></a> Learn <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/how-to-get-mls-season-pass-20230203-WST-417725.html">how to subscribe</a> to MLS Season Pass</div>
<div style="padding:10px;">
<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/mls-season-pass-announcers-and-analysts-for-apple-deal-20230203-WST-416042.html"><strong>Commentators:</strong></a> Check out <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/mls-season-pass-announcers-and-analysts-for-apple-deal-20230203-WST-416042.html">who&apos;s</a> calling the action for the MLS season</div>
<div style="padding:10px;">
<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/how-to-watch-mls-season-pass-on-android-20230203-WST-416910.html"><strong>Android users</strong></a> Tips for fans <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/how-to-watch-mls-season-pass-on-android-20230203-WST-416910.html">Android users</a> on how to watch MLS Season Pass</div>
</div>

Univision acquires Leagues Cup rights but passes on MLS

Univision will air Leagues Cup games on US TV. However, the Spanish broadcaster opted to not get in on the MLS action for this campaign.

Latest news from Leagues Cup. Find out about all the news related to Leagues Cup on worldsoccertalk.com

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