MLS to continue its regular season in home markets
Major League Soccer has announced that they will resume their 2020 regular season amid the coronavirus pandemic with teams playing in their home markets.
The Major League Soccer (MLS) has announced that the league's 25th season will continue in the home markets of the 26 clubs beginning Wednesday 12 August. The regular campaign will resume one day after the final of the MLS is Back tournament between Orlando City and Portland Timbers.
Each club will play 18 regular season games in a phased approach, culminating with Decision Day on Sunday 8 November. The MLS plans to announce the balance of the regular season schedule by early September as the league continues to work with infectious disease experts, league and club medical personnel, and government officials in all markets.
The return to play in home markets will feature comprehensive health and safety protocols, as the MLS continues to work closely with the league’s health experts, as well as advisors for the MLSPA on the plan for testing.
No fans allowed for now
All clubs are forming test partnerships with local certified labs, and all players, technical staff, and essential club staff will be tested every other day, including the day before each game. Also, guidelines will be provided to players, coaches and essential staff to avoid the risk of getting or spreading Covid-19 during the time away from club facilities.
Teams will take chartered flights, and for the majority of road trips will arrive in the host market on matchday and depart after the match later that evening. At this time, the majority of the matches in local markets will be played without fans in attendance. MLS and club leadership are working with local health authorities and government officials on a plan for limited capacity at certain games where allowed.