Major League Soccer is gearing up for a landmark season as it celebrates its 30th anniversary with an expanded league, global superstar signings, and a schedule packed with must-see matchups. The 2025 campaign promises to be one for the record books, ushering in a new era of excitement and growth for North America’s premier soccer league.
Messi’s Miami Debut Headlines Opening Weekend
All eyes will be on Inter Miami as they kick off the season on February 22 by hosting New York City FC. The match marks the highly anticipated MLS debut of Lionel Messi, widely considered one of the greatest players of all time. The Argentine legend’s arrival has generated unprecedented buzz and is expected to elevate the league’s global profile to new heights.
Messi, who signed with Miami in a blockbuster deal, will look to make an immediate impact and lead his new team to glory. His presence alone is sure to draw record crowds and television ratings as fans around the world tune in to witness his magic on the MLS stage.
San Diego FC Joins the Fray
The 2025 season also marks the debut of San Diego FC, the league’s 30th franchise. The expansion team will make its first-ever appearance on February 23 with a trip to face the defending MLS Cup champions, the LA Galaxy.
San Diego has been eagerly awaiting the arrival of top-flight soccer, and the passionate fan base is expected to make Snapdragon Stadium a fortress. With a mix of seasoned veterans and exciting young talents, San Diego FC will aim to make a splash in their inaugural campaign and challenge the league’s elite.
Regular Season Format and Key Dates
Each of the league’s 30 teams will play a 34-game schedule, facing conference opponents twice and engaging in six interconference matchups. The regular season will pause from June 15-24 to accommodate the FIFA Club World Cup, featuring Inter Miami and the Seattle Sounders representing MLS, and the Concacaf Gold Cup.
Unlike recent years, there will be no break for the Leagues Cup, which will run from July 29 to August 31 with matches taking place in midweek. The condensed tournament will add an extra layer of excitement as MLS clubs compete against Liga MX counterparts.
The regular season concludes on Decision Day, October 18, followed by the adrenaline-fueled MLS Cup Playoffs. The postseason schedule will be released at a later date, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
Milestone Matchups and Rivalry Week
The 2025 schedule is filled with mouthwatering clashes that will have fans circling their calendars. April 6 sees the San Jose Earthquakes host D.C. United in a recreation of the league’s inaugural match from 1996. This nostalgic encounter celebrates the incredible journey MLS has undertaken over the past three decades.
July 12 features a battle between MLS royalty as the LA Galaxy welcomes D.C. United to Dignity Health Sports Park. These two sides have a rich history, having faced off in the league’s first-ever MLS Cup final, and their matchups always deliver fireworks.
The highly anticipated Rivalry Week kicks off on May 14, pitting regional foes against each other in a series of heated clashes. From the passion of El Tráfico to the intensity of the Hudson River Derby, these matches showcase the fierce competitiveness that defines MLS.
All-Star Spectacular in Austin
One of the season’s marquee events takes place on July 23 as Austin FC hosts the 2025 MLS All-Star Game at Q2 Stadium. The annual showcase will feature the league’s biggest stars going head-to-head in a dazzling display of skill and flair. With Austin’s vibrant atmosphere and passionate fans, the All-Star Game is sure to be an unforgettable spectacle.
A Season Like No Other
As Major League Soccer embarks on its 30th season, the excitement and anticipation are palpable. With global icons like Lionel Messi gracing the pitch, new franchises making their mark, and a schedule bursting with must-see matches, the 2025 campaign has all the ingredients for a truly remarkable year.
Fans across the continent and around the world will be treated to a level of soccer never before seen in MLS. The league’s growth and evolution over the past three decades have been nothing short of extraordinary, and the 2025 season promises to take things to even greater heights.
From the opening whistle to the final kick of the MLS Cup, the 30th season of Major League Soccer will be a celebration of the sport’s past, present, and future in North America. Buckle up and get ready for a wild ride as MLS showcases the very best it has to offer in a season for the ages.
