MLS resumes season on Apple TV after World Cup hiatus

Major League Soccer resumed its regular season on Thursday, July 16, following a six-week pause for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The league's return was strategically scheduled during the break between the World Cup semifinals and the final, with a slate of matches broadcast globally on Apple TV.

A record 45 MLS players from 22 clubs participated in the World Cup, with many returning to their teams this week. Among them is Inter Miami CF captain Lionel Messi, who became the tournament's all-time leading scorer while leading Argentina to the final. Other notable returning players include U.S. international Sebastian Berhalter of the Vancouver Whitecaps, Canadian goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau of Orlando City SC, and Cape Verde defender Steven Moreira of the Columbus Crew.

The summer transfer window has also brought significant new talent to the league. French star Antoine Griezmann, a 2018 World Cup champion, has joined Orlando City SC. Polish striker Robert Lewandowski signed with the Chicago Fire, and Scottish goalkeeper Angus Gunn joined the San Jose Earthquakes. Additional reported signings include Brazil's Casemiro to Inter Miami, France's Allan Saint-Maximin to Charlotte FC, Spain's...