REVEALED: Shocking ‘Opt-Out’ Clause That Could Lose MLS Billions Following Massive Deal With Apple

The new season of the MLS has started with a bang. It has been a roller coaster ride for the fans so far as we have seen many nail-biting finishes. The average attendance so far has been encouraging in the first two weeks, and it is a significant sign for the new media rights sponsors Apple TV. However, there are reports of an opt-out clause for Apple TV if certain conditions aren’t fulfilled.

MLS and Apple TV announced a new broadcast deal last summer. The deal is worth $2.5 billion to show every MLS game for the next ten years. It is a blockbuster deal in MLS history, which is trying to improve its popularity. Meanwhile, additional details of the deal have raised concerns with the fans.

Do the MLS and Apple TV deal have an opt-out clause?

The Athletic recently reported that there is an opt-out clause in the MLS and Apple TV deal. It allows Apple TV to walk out of the agreement. MLS needs to drive a certain number of season pass subscribers in a specific timeframe for the deal to continue. If that doesn’t happen, Apple might cancel the agreement.

Recently, MLS commissioner Don Garber spoke to The Athletic and discussed various aspects. When asked about the opt-out clause, he neither confirmed nor denied the claims. Garber said, “We have never talked about what the specific terms (of the agreement) are, and we are not going to talk about it now. It’s a 10-year partnership. We are both very, very committed to that. I am wholeheartedly convinced that this company and our league are going to be together for a very long time.”

It will be interesting to see whether the reports are true or not. As everything depends on the number of season pass holders, MLS will focus on the task of keeping the deal going. Apple has already released subscription packages for fans to view the MLS games on the streaming platform.

How much will it cost for the fans to watch the games?

The MLS season pass is necessary for the fans to watch the games live. Those with an Apple TV subscription will pay $12.99 per month and $79 per season. On the other hand, fans without a subscription will pay $14.99 per month during the season or $99 per season. Apple will also broadcast the play-off games and League Cup games as part of the agreement. 

READ MORE: “Opportunity to Do Their Own Drive to Survive” – After Lucrative $2.5 Billion Deal, MLS Partners With F1 Documentary Team

MLS will hope for achieving the desired number of season pass holders in the given timeframe. It is a testing time for the league as it could potentially make or break such a blockbuster deal. Only time will tell whether the reports of the opt-out clause are true or not.

WATCH THIS STORY: Alexis Ohanian’s Seven-Word Reaction to Alex Morgan’s Heart-Warming Disclosure

Let us know your thoughts on the reported clause in the MLS and Apple agreement.