Apple today launched the MLS Season Pass in more than 100 territories, giving soccer fans access to all MLS matches.
The Audi 2023 MLS Cup and Leagues Cup playoffs, as well as original programming.
Notably, there are no blackouts, so subscribers can watch matches in or out of the market.
The 2023 MLS season begins on February 25.
The 10-year deal between Major League Soccer and Apple is significant for both entities as it provides a unique experience to a large fan base.
For MLS Cup 2022, the league attracted its largest audience in 25 years, generating 2.155 million viewers across Fox and Univision in the U.S.
If Apple’s new subscription proves successful, there is potential for other streaming services and major sports leagues to consider similar deals future.
Apple may also reportedly be planning to bid for streaming rights to English Premier League soccer.
How much does the MLS Season Pass cost?
The MLS Season Pass is available now on the Apple TV app for $14.99 per month or $99 per season.
With Apple’s Family Sharing, up to six members can share a subscription using their own Apple ID and password.
Apple TV+ subscribers get a discounted price of $12.99 per month or $79 per season.
In comparison, NBA League Pass costs $14.99 per month or $99 per season. ESPN+ streams up to 350 out-of-market MLS matchups for $9.99 per month.
MLS season ticket holders will also receive an MLS Season Pass subscription at no additional cost.
What is included in the MLS Season Pass?
The MLS Season Pass is available through the Apple TV app on Apple devices, smart TVs, streaming devices, set-top boxes, game consoles and through the web (tv.apple.com).
Supported devices include Samsung TVs, LG TVs, Panasonic TVs, Sony TVs, VIZIO TVs, Amazon Fire TVs, Roku, Android TVs and Google TVs, PlayStation, Xbox and more.
With the MLS Season Pass, subscribers have access to all live matches throughout the season, which include English and Spanish-speaking broadcasters.
Canadian games get French commentary.
The best part about the 2023 season is that most MLS games on Apple will be broadcast on Saturdays and select Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. local kick-off times so fans can more easily find out when they can watch their favorite teams.
To follow their favorite teams, Apple TV users can select their favorites in the app under the “My Sports” tab, where they will also find results and fixtures for each club.
Fans can also sign up for reminders and alerts to be alerted on their devices as the game approaches.
Before the start of the 2023 season, viewers will be able to watch free on-demand content such as 2023 player profiles, interviews, highlights from the 2022 season and more.
Fans can watch complete match records from the 2019-2022 season.
In addition, fans will not need an MLS Season Pass subscription to watch the opening weekend of MLS is Back, as streaming is free through the Apple TV app.
MLS coverage includes nearly 50 broadcasters, analysts and former soccer players, including former MLS and US National Team player Taylor Twellman.
Danielle Slaton, former analyst and former US Women’s National Team; Maurice Edu, a member of the 2010 USA World Cup Team.
Lori Lindsey, former member of the 2011 United States Women’s World Cup team and soccer analyst for ESPN and CBS Sports; Among many others
Source: Techcrunch | thenationview.com