What Happened
MLS NEXT Pro announced a global partnership with OneFootball to stream matches for the 2026 season, including regular season games, playoffs, and the MLS NEXT Pro Cup. This initiative aims to make matches accessible to fans 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, reportedly worth $28 million, marking a significant milestone in women’s sports sponsorship.
Why It Matters
The partnership with OneFootball is expected to enhance the visibility of MLS NEXT Pro, reaching an audience of 200 million active monthly users. This collaboration aligns with the league’s mission to grow soccer in the U.S. and connect fans more deeply with the game. Meanwhile, the Aflac sponsorship deal for Atlanta’s NWSL team sets a new benchmark in women’s sports, reflecting the increasing investment and interest in women’s soccer.
What’s Next
As MLS NEXT Pro prepares for its fifth season, the focus will be on leveraging the OneFootball platform to engage fans and promote the league. For Atlanta’s NWSL team, the successful sponsorship deal indicates a strong financial foundation as they work towards their inaugural season. The club is also in the process of developing its brand identity and will play home matches at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.