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MLS NEXT Pro 2026 Season Set to Kick Off with Expansion and Familiar Faces
Published: 2026/01/21 21:55:29
A New Era for MLS’s Development League
The MLS NEXT Pro league is gearing up for its 2026 season, promising a dynamic campaign filled with emerging talent and competitive matches. The league has released its regular season schedule, featuring 30 teams – 27 affiliated with Major League Soccer clubs and three independent organizations – and a total of 420 fixtures. This season will be particularly notable as it runs concurrently with the 2026 FIFA World Cup, adding another layer of excitement for soccer fans.
Key Details of the 2026 Season
The 2026 MLS NEXT Pro season will span 30 weeks, with each team playing a 28-match schedule comprised of 14 home and 14 away games. The format emphasizes divisional play, with teams facing their divisional opponents up to three times. the remaining matches will be filled with contests against other teams within the same conference. This structure aims to foster regional rivalries and provide consistent competition.
New Additions to the League
This season welcomes three new independent clubs to the league: Carolina Core FC, Chattanooga FC, and Connecticut United FC. These additions demonstrate the growing interest and investment in the developmental pathway for soccer players in the United States. The influx of new teams is expected to increase the league’s overall competitiveness and provide more opportunities for young players to showcase their skills.
Inter Miami CF II’s Schedule Highlights
Inter Miami CF II will kick off their 2026 campaign on February 27th against Chicago Fire FC II at Inter Miami CF Stadium. Their regular season will conclude on September 20th with an away match against CT United FC. Throughout the season, Inter Miami CF II will face a range of opponents, including Atlanta United 2, Crown Legacy FC, New York City FC II, Carolina Core FC, Toronto FC II, Chattanooga FC, Huntsville City FC, New England Revolution II, and Orlando City B at home. Their away schedule includes trips to Red Bull New York II, Orlando City B, Carolina Core FC, Huntsville City FC, columbus Crew 2, Chicago Fire FC II, FC Cincinnati 2, Chattanooga FC, and Atlanta United 2.
Decision Day and Playoff Implications
The regular season will culminate in “Decision Day” on September 20th, with all teams in action.This final day of competition will be crucial in determining playoff seeding and ensuring a thrilling conclusion to the season. The stakes will be high as teams battle for positioning in the playoffs, aiming to secure their place in the pursuit of the MLS NEXT Pro championship.
Ticket Details
season Ticket Members will have the possibility to secure complimentary tickets to all home matches. General inquiries can be directed HERE or via email at tickets@intermiamicf.