Invigorated by the arrival of a certain Lionel Messi, interest in MLS has soared through the roof in 2023.
The Argentine's decision to venture out to a waning franchise in Inter Miami saw MLS intrigue reach its peak during the mid-season break as he inspired the Herons to Leagues Cup glory.
However, 2023 was also significant for MLS after a ten-year broadcasting deal worth a whopping $2.5bn was struck in June 2022 with the recently-established Apple TV. Never before has it been easier to access MLS action across the globe, although Messi fanatics and enjoyers of the division will have to pay to ensure they catch all the action.
Here's how you can watch MLS football in the UK and US.
How to watch MLS football on TV in the UK
Apple TV
Apple gained exclusive rights to MLS before the start of the 2023 season, with all matches being streamed on the globally accessible on Apple TV - including the United Kingdom. While some matches are available as part of an Apple TV subscription, the MLS Season Pass will grant access to every single MLS fixture in 2023.
How to watch MLS football on TV in the US
Apple TV
Given the universal nature of the Apple deal, the same details apply for viewers in the United States.
Fox Sports
Fox Sports has been a partner of MLS since 2003, and while its streaming prominence has been reduced drastically in 2023 as a result of Apple TV's emergence, the US broadcaster has continued to show live MLS games.
MLS announced at the end of 2022 Fox Sports would be the exclusive network and cable TV home of the soccer league’s regular season and Audi MLS Cup Playoff games in the US for the next four seasons. Fox Sports will show an average of 34 regular season games annually, with 15 on the Fox network and the remaining inventory on the FS1.
MLS football on TV - October schedule
How can I watch MLS on Apple TV?
You must purchase the MLS Season Pass. This costs £14.99/$14.99 monthly, with subscribers accessing live streams of all MLS games as well as other bonus content and match replays.
Apple TV+ subscribers can access the pass for a discounted rate (£/$12.99/month).
Once you've acquired the pass, accessing the MLS streams should be simple. After signing into your Apple account, a quick search of MLS will bring up all the live action.
If you haven't subscribed to MLS Season Pass but have subscribed to Apple TV+, you can watch a selection of MLS and Leagues Cup matches, including some of the biggest playoff contests at no additional cost. A limited number of games are available for free in the Apple TV app when you sign in with your Apple ID.
Other MLS TV rights holders around the world
North America
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This article was originally published on 90min as How to watch MLS fixtures on TV this week - United Kingdom & United States.