MLS Format and Calendar restructuring
Evolving the MLS for the changing game
Challenge
Major League Soccer was considering its most significant strategic shift in history: a 2027 move to the global football calendar and revamp the format of the whole competition.
Solution
This presented enormous operational and commercial opportunities but at the same time risks had to be considered.
We have worked alongside the MLS for 2 years to build confidence the change would deliver on its goals of enhanced competitive quality and player recruitment.
Our team provided the critical analysis, running extensive calendar and format simulations to model potential outcomes. We delivered the essential commercial validation and complex simulation analysis required to underpin the final decision.
Impact
Following an MLS league vote to implement changes to the format and competition scheduling, our analysis provided proof that the change would bring benefits. This gave the league and its partners confidence to approve the historic shift, transforming the MLS into a more valuable, sustainable, and globally competitive product for its clubs, fans, and commercial partners.
The new format is designed to deliver a more compelling competition for fans and allow teams to perform at their highest level in both MLS and international competitions from 2027 and beyond.
