Major League Soccer (MLS) is entering its 29th season in 2024, and as the top professional soccer league in the United States and Canada, it will be providing plenty of exciting matchups and storylines throughout the year. With two new expansion teams joining in 2024 – Las Vegas and San Diego – there will be new rivalries created and new stadiums for fans to enjoy too.
For both die-hard and casual soccer fans, having different viewing options to catch all the MLS action is key, because otherwise you could miss out on the action. This comprehensive guide outlines the main ways to watch MLS games in 2024, including streaming platforms, traditional cable/satellite television, and free viewing alternatives. I will also provide a comparison table to showcase the unique features and costs associated with each method.
Apple TV+ MLS Season Pass
The centerpiece viewing option for MLS fans is the Apple TV+ MLS Season Pass. In 2023, Apple and MLS entered a historic 10-year partnership for domestic rights to all MLS matches. This provides fans an unparalleled streaming package to enjoy games.
Some key features of the Apple TV+ MLS Season Pass include:
- Availability of every single MLS regular season match with no blackouts
- Full coverage of the MLS Cup Playoffs, Leagues Cup, Campeones Cup, MLS All-Star Game and more
- On-demand replays of full game broadcasts
- Behind-the-scenes and analysis programming
- Broadcasts available in both English and Spanish
The MLS Season Pass costs $14.99 per month or $99 for the full season. One unique aspect is that the Pass offers a discounted rate for existing Apple TV+ subscribers – $12.99 per month or $79 per season. In either case, taking the season long offer bags a saving of around $50.
For fans that want access to all games plus complementary MLS content, the Apple TV+ Season Pass is an excellent one-stop streaming option.
Traditional Cable and Satellite Television
While Apple TV+ has extensive coverage, traditional cable and satellite TV still air select MLS matches, primarily on Fox, FS1, and Fox Deportes. This caters to fans that already have these channel packages through their TV provider.
Some of the key attributes of watching MLS action on cable/satellite TV include:
- Typically showcases rivalry matches and playoffs
- Provides both English and Spanish broadcast options
- Reaches a broad audience with household accessibility
- Allows viewing via traditional TV setup without streaming
So while traditional TV doesn’t have the same comprehensive lineup of games as the MLS Season Pass, major matches are still available over-the-air. This includes high-profile rivalry showdowns, local market games, and the MLS Cup playoffs.
Free Viewing Options
For fans looking to test the MLS viewing experience before paying, or who just refuse to put up the cash, there are some free options available with limited access:
Apple TV+:
- Each week of the MLS season, Apple TV+ makes a small selection of games available for free to anyone with an Apple ID. While game selection is limited, this allows sampling of the streaming broadcast quality.
Over-the-Air Antenna:
- For locally broadcast MLS matches on Fox’s over-the-air channels, fans can utilize an HD antenna to watch games. This provides free access subject to your geographic location and antenna reception capabilities.
While not as robust as paid services, these options let new fans sample MLS matches without cost commitment.
Additional Platforms and Promotions
Beyond the major viewing outlets outlined above, there are additional ways to potentially access MLS action:
- Streaming Service Free Trials – Platforms like FuboTV, Hulu Live TV, and Sling TV offer free trials for new users and sometimes carry local MLS broadcasts. This provides another avenue to sample games.
- League Promotions – During each MLS season, there are often special limited-time offers for discounted streaming subscriptions or free access periods across different providers. So be on the lookout for these types of promotions.
Side-by-Side Viewing Options Comparison
To help summarize the main 2024 MLS viewing outlets, see the comparison table below showcasing the options, features, and costs:
| Viewing Option | Cost | Features | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple TV+ MLS Season Pass |
$14.99/month $99/season |
All MLS matches, no blackouts, on-demand replays, analysis programming, English & Spanish broadcasts | Dedicated MLS fans wanting comprehensive access |
| Traditional TV (Fox, FS1) |
Cable/satellite subscription |
Select live games, primarily rivalry & playoff matches, English & Spanish broadcasts | Fans preferring traditional TV setup and major MLS match coverage |
| Free Viewing Options |
Free | Limited number of games on Apple TV+ weekly & local broadcasts via antenna | Newer fans sampling MLS matches before paying for comprehensive coverage |
| Other Streaming Services |
Varies by platform | Varies by provider – may include free trials with MLS games included | Fans exploring different streaming options that carry select MLS content |