MLS conferences transformed by new five-division format

Major League Soccer is set to undergo some major changes in the coming years, potentially reshaping the face of domestic soccer in the United States.

The two-conference format that has defined MLS since its first season in 1996 is set to be replaced with five divisions, grouping the league’s 30 teams alongside geographical rivals. The Athletic reports that the five-division format is set to come into effect in 2027. Here’s a look at how those divisions are expected to break down...

League officials have tried to keep rivals together to maintain the regular matchups that fans crave. However there are some notable exceptions related to two of the oldest teams in the league.

In current projections the San Jose Earthquakes find themselves separated from the other three California teams; the LA Galaxy, LAFC and San Diego FC. Meanwhile DC United will be split from both New York teams and the Philadelphia Union, the team’s historic rivals.

The new format would reportedly see teams play each divisional opponents twice - once home and once away - along with every other MLS team once.

From 2027 the league is also set to replace the existing ‘calendar year’ season with a new schedule that more closely resembles the top European league. The league is expected to begin in July and run through May, with a winter break in January.

These changes are designed to help MLS to compete with the world’s top soccer leagues. In a statement announcing the calendar change, MLS commissioner Don Garber described it as “one of the most important decisions in our history.”

Garber continued: “Aligning our schedule with the world’s top leagues will strengthen our clubs’ global competitiveness, create better opportunities in the transfer market, and ensure our Audi MLS Cup Playoffs take center stage without interruption. It marks the start of a new era for our league and for soccer in North America.”

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