Major League Soccer may be bringing traction to the sport with the lack of viewers from home, but a partnership with tech giant Apple may help solve the problem.
It was recently announced that the Apple TV app would become the exclusive destination for MLS matches next year.
Read also: Apple Store in Towson, Maryland, Becomes the Latest Entity to Vote for a Union
The partnership will be a historic first for the league, allowing fans to watch not only MLS but also the Leagues Cup and select MLS NEXT Pro and MLS Next matches in a single channel without encountering local broadcast blackouts or requirements for pay-TV bundles.
Between early 2023 and 2032, fans can catch every MLS match by subscribing to the MLS streaming service. They will also get weekly live match whip-around shows, replays, highlights, analysis, and other original programs.
Fans don’t have to worry about the exclusivity of Apple products as the app is also available on Android devices, smart TVs, PlayStation and Xbox consoles, Chromecast with Google TV, and Comcast Xfinity.
“Apple is the perfect partner to further accelerate the growth of MLS and deepen the connection between our clubs and their fans,” said MLS commissioner Don Garber. “Given Apple’s ability to create a best-in-class user experience and to reach fans everywhere, it’ll be incredibly easy to enjoy MLS matches anywhere, whether you’re a super fan or casual viewer.”
Apple mirrored Garber’s sentiment when Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president of Services, said:
“For the first time in the history of sports, fans will be able to access everything from a major professional sports league in one place. It’s a dream come true for MLS fans, soccer fans, and anyone who loves sports,” said Cue. “No fragmentation, no frustration – just the flexibility to sign up for one convenient service that gives you everything MLS, anywhere and anytime you want to watch. We can’t wait for even more people to fall in love with MLS and root for their favorite club.”
Once the service launches, the MLS and Leagues Cup matches will feature announcers in English and Spanish. Games with Canadian teams will also feature French announcers.
Apple and MLS will also provide league and club coverage, allowing fans to follow not only the league or their favorite clubs in Apple News but also review highlights in the News app.
Read also: Champions League Final in Paris Paves the Way for NFT Ticketing
Opinions expressed by NY Weekly contributors are their own.
