NWSL Considers Calendar Shift Amid MLS Changes

SAN JOSE, Calif. — NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman announced that the league’s operational framework is undergoing scrutiny regarding a possible shift in its calendar, which would see the season commence in late summer and conclude in late spring.

This consideration comes on the heels of Major League Soccer’s recent decision to adjust its seasonal timeline, beginning in 2027, to align with global football calendars.

The NWSL’s Board of Governors has deliberated extensively over the years on the merits of a calendar change, with a proposal having been rejected in fall 2024, as confirmed by multiple sources to ESPN.

“There are certainly opportunities that could arise from avoiding overlap with Major League Soccer, as it would reduce scheduling congestion during our summer months,” Berman stated during her State of the League address at San Jose Civic. “However, this shift would also pose challenges, particularly concerning stadium availability and planning.”

The impending MLS calendar change may compel the NWSL to make a decisive move. The league faces significant venue constraints, as many teams share stadiums with MLS franchises. Sources familiar with the situation noted that while MLS’s departure from summer scheduling could theoretically ease NWSL’s game planning during that period, it may instead complicate matters.

MLS will reserve dates for its playoffs, which will now occur in May—the early phase of the NWSL season—making it difficult for the NWSL to finalize its initial schedule. Adding to this complexity, MLS will not allocate game dates for its subsequent season, set to kick off in late July, until closer to summer, potentially leaving the NWSL in a precarious position regarding venue assignments.

Next year, twelve of the sixteen NWSL teams are expected to share their facilities with MLS teams. Proponents of a calendar realignment argue that synchronizing with global leagues would facilitate larger player transfers, especially from Europe, where players are in the midst of their own seasons.

In last year’s ESPN NWSL Anonymous GM Survey, one general manager identified the calendar as “the most pressing issue facing the league.” However, opinions were divided regarding the optimal solution, reflecting similar divisions within the league’s governance structure, where such changes require consensus.

In the latest ESPN survey, one general manager cited shifting the calendar as the top rule they would amend. “Considering my responsibilities, moving the schedule could prove complicated, particularly given that most teams are not located in warmer climates,” the GM remarked. “To maintain high-quality play, it’s crucial that we align ourselves with global standards. As one of the few nations adhering to this schedule, it presents challenges. While it may not be an immediate priority, for our league to be among the best in the world, this is a conversation worth having.”

Washington Spirit defender Esme Morgan, an England international and former Manchester City player, expressed her positive perspective on the current NWSL schedule. “I view it as an advantage, especially when entering international tournaments during the summer while being in the thick of the season. The pleasant weather from spring to autumn also enhances the experience, making it an appealing aspect of playing here compared to Europe.”

Morgan, who played a key role in England’s runner-up finish at the 2023 World Cup and their triumph at the 2025 European Championship, highlighted the harsh winters in many northern U.S. cities. “Playing in the cold is far from enjoyable; it can be quite extreme compared to England. From a viewership standpoint, it’s not ideal for families to endure such conditions at games. I believe the league benefits from its current schedule, but the future remains uncertain.”

Sources involved in the calendar discussion have referred to the issue as a Catch-22, as summer heat poses its own challenges across the U.S. An NWSL match in Kansas City last August faced a significant delay due to extreme temperatures.

With MLS announcing its schedule change, the league has roughly a year and a half to adapt. Berman remained non-committal on how long it might take for the NWSL to implement similar changes, stating, “It will depend on various factors. Our ecosystem is aware that this conversation is ongoing, and we will ensure ample time is afforded for a smooth transition. This will be paramount as we assess the overall implications of any changes.”