The MLS Week 1 Schedule 2026 officially kicks off a highly anticipated season of Major League Soccer. The 2026 campaign marks the 31st season of MLS and the 48th overall top-division men’s professional soccer season sanctioned by the United States Soccer Federation. With 30 teams split evenly between the Eastern and Western Conferences, fans can expect an action-packed opening weekend filled with rivalries, new signings, and high-intensity matchups.
MLS 2026 Season Overview
- Season: 2026
- Regular Season Dates: February 21 – November 7, 2026
- Playoffs: TBA
- MLS Cup 2026: December 18
- Total Teams: 30 (15 Eastern, 15 Western)
The 2026 MLS season begins on Saturday, February 21, setting the stage for months of competitive soccer across the United States and Canada. Opening week is especially important, as clubs look to establish momentum early in the standings.
MLS Week 1 Schedule 2026 (All Times ET)
Saturday, February 21
Opening Saturday features a full slate of matches, highlighted by marquee showdowns and conference battles.
- St. Louis vs. Charlotte – 2:30 p.m. (Apple TV)
- Cincinnati vs. Atlanta – 4:45 p.m. (Apple TV, Fox)
- D.C. United vs. Philadelphia – 7:30 p.m. (Apple TV)
- Orlando vs. New York – 7:30 p.m. (Apple TV)
- Vancouver vs. Salt Lake – 7:30 p.m. (Apple TV)
- Austin vs. Minnesota – 8:30 p.m. (Apple TV)
- Dallas vs. Toronto – 8:30 p.m. (Apple TV)
- Houston vs. Chicago – 8:30 p.m. (Apple TV)
- Nashville vs. New England – 8:30 p.m. (Apple TV)
- LAFC vs. Miami – 9:30 p.m. (Apple TV)
- Portland vs. Columbus – 10:30 p.m. (Apple TV)
- San Diego vs. Montreal – 10:30 p.m. (Apple TV)
- San Jose vs. Kansas City – 10:30 p.m. (Apple TV)
Saturday alone delivers 13 matches, giving fans nearly nonstop soccer from afternoon to late evening.
Sunday, February 22
Opening weekend concludes with two high-profile clashes:
- L.A. Galaxy vs. New York City – 7:00 p.m. (Apple TV)
- Seattle vs. Colorado – 9:15 p.m. (Apple TV, FS1)
These fixtures feature established contenders and historic clubs, making Sunday night an exciting finish to Week 1.
Where to Watch MLS Week 1 in 2026
Most matches during the opening weekend will stream live on Apple TV, continuing the league’s global broadcast partnership. Select games will also air nationally on Fox and FS1, expanding access for viewers across North America.
Fans can watch every goal, assist, and highlight through the MLS Season Pass, ensuring comprehensive coverage throughout the season.
What to Expect from Opening Weekend
Week 1 is always unpredictable. Clubs debut new tactical systems, offseason signings make first impressions, and supporters pack stadiums with renewed energy. Early results can shape confidence and influence playoff races later in the year.
Key storylines to watch include:
- Conference matchups that could preview playoff battles
- Expansion team performances
- Star player debuts and international signings
- Tactical adjustments under new head coaches
Final Thoughts
The MLS Week 1 Schedule 2026 delivers one of the most exciting opening weekends in league history. With 30 teams competing and national broadcast coverage across multiple platforms, the 2026 season promises intensity, talent, and unforgettable moments right from kickoff.
Mark your calendar for February 21–22, 2026, and get ready for another thrilling Major League Soccer campaign.