Fans eager to experience the thrills of postseason Major League Soccer (MLS) will be pleased to learn that they no longer need an MLS Season Pass subscription on Apple TV to catch the action. According to a report by Alex Silverman in Sports Business Journal, MLS and Apple have removed this requirement, allowing any standard Apple TV (formerly Apple TV+) subscriber to join in on the playoff matches this season.
This move aligns with MLS and Apple’s ongoing efforts to enhance accessibility for fans. Throughout the season, initiatives such as the Sunday Night Soccer package have allowed audiences to enjoy games without being tied to the Season Pass paywall. Nevertheless, both the league and its streaming partner have encountered criticism regarding the overall accessibility of matches, as a majority still remain exclusive to Season Pass holders.
By eliminating the Season Pass requirement for the postseason, MLS and Apple hope to expand their reach and attract a broader audience during the critical playoff matches, which represent the pinnacle of the season. Fox Sports will continue to broadcast a selection of playoff games, including the MLS Cup, on its linear television network, ensuring that fans have several options for viewing.
The MLS-Apple partnership has faced challenges, highlighted by last year’s disappointing viewer data for the MLS Cup available through both Apple TV and Fox’s broadcast network. However, this year’s initiatives suggest that lessons have been learned, and there may be positive signs on the horizon. In July, MLS Commissioner Don Garber reported a 50% year-over-year increase in viewership, possibly as a result of greater accessibility. While specifics about these figures were somewhat unclear, the league is sharing more limited viewership data than in previous years, indicating confidence in a growing audience base.
Overall, the decision to allow broader access to playoff games signals a commitment from MLS and Apple to drive engagement and develop a more extensive fan base during a crucial part of the season. As the playoffs approach, fans can look forward to an exciting showcase of soccer that is now more accessible than ever.