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MLS seeks $400 million annual TV deal amid soccer competition

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 26, 2026, 4:00 PM

Last updated Jul 26, 2026

MLS seeks $400 million annual TV deal amid soccer competition

Summary

Major League Soccer is targeting annual rights fees between $400 million and $500 million as its exclusive agreement with Apple approaches expiration after the 2029 season. The current deal provides the league with $250 million annually. Despite recent popularity boosts, MLS faces significant competition for viewership from leagues like the Premier League and Liga MX, with competing interests vying for American soccer fans. Recent matches, including an Atlanta United versus Nashville SC game, drew viewer counts below typical Premier League figures, highlighting the struggle for visibility. The league aims to leverage increased interest from the recent World Cup for its upcoming negotiations.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Market Watch

•MLS aims for $400-$500 million in its next media rights deal.
•Current deal with Apple is worth $250 million annually.
•MLS faces competition from the Premier League and Liga MX.
•Recent matches average viewership below that of competing leagues.
•The World Cup could increase interest in MLS ahead of negotiations.

Latest Updates

4:00 PMYahoo Sports — MLS eyes $400 million TV deal amid crowded soccer landscape

What they're saying

"
Major League Soccer is hoping to capitalize on growing interest in soccer in the United States while nearly tripling the value of its next media rights deal. According to ESPN’s Ben Strauss, MLS is targeting annual rights fees between $400 million and $500 million when its exclusive agreement with Apple expires after the 2029 season.…
— Yahoo Sports

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