2010 MLS Season To Break For World Cup

Major League Soccer officials have announced this afternoon their decision to schedule a league break during the group phase of the 2010 FIFA World Cup next summer, marking the first time it has done so in its 14-year history. The move comes in response to constant criticism of the league's policy of scheduling games on FIFA-recognized international dates and during tournaments, such as the Gold Cup, Confederations Cup and World Cup.


“The decision to stop league play during the group phase of the 2010 FIFA World Cup is part of MLS’ commitment to deepen its connection with the millions of soccer fans in the United States and Canada,” said MLS Commissioner Don Garber. “The World Cup will be a focal point for all MLS fans and several MLS players will compete with their national teams at the tournament.”

The last MLS game prior to the World Cup will be played on June 10 (the day before the World Cup kicks off) and MLS will not schedule any additional League games until after the group phase concludes on June 25. MLS also does not plan to schedule games on the days of either World Cup Semifinal nor the World Cup Final.

In addition, the league announced that the 2010 regular season will see each team play a balanced 30-game schedule, facing each opponent once at home and once away. The 2010 season will begin with a single game March 25th and will conclude October 24th. The MLS Cup Playoffs will culminate in the championship match, MLS Cup 2010, on Nov. 21st. Each team's home opener for next season is scheduled to be announced soon, with the remainder of the schedule not unveiled until early next year.