What Happened
MLS NEXT Pro announced a global partnership with OneFootball to stream matches for the 2026 season, including the regular season, Playoffs, and MLS NEXT Pro Cup. This partnership will allow matches to be live and free-to-air for all OneFootball users worldwide, starting February 27, 2026. Additionally, Atlanta’s NWSL team, set to debut in 2028, secured a seven-year front-of-jersey sponsorship deal with Aflac worth $28 million, reportedly the largest in women’s sports history.
Why It Matters
The collaboration with OneFootball aims to enhance the visibility of MLS NEXT Pro, reaching an audience of 200 million active monthly users. This move is part of a broader strategy to grow soccer’s popularity in the United States. Meanwhile, the significant sponsorship deal for Atlanta’s NWSL team underscores the increasing financial investment in women’s sports, setting a precedent for future partnerships in the league.
What’s Next
As MLS NEXT Pro prepares for its fifth season, the league anticipates increased engagement from fans through the OneFootball platform. The Atlanta NWSL team will continue to develop its brand identity and prepare for its inaugural season, with the Aflac partnership expected to play a crucial role in its marketing strategy.
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