Apple to show MLS Cup Playoff free on MLS Season Pass

Soccer superstar Lionel Messi will make his MLS Cup Playoff debut on Friday, October 25, and Apple is giving everyone a chance to watch for free.

Messi joined Inter Miami CF last season, a move that allegedly doubled subscriptions for Apple's MLS Season Pass. As a way to entice more viewers to check out the Season Pass, Apple is giving soccer fans a chance to watch the MLS Cup Playoffs for free.

On October 25, Inter Miami CF kicks off against Atlanta United FC at 8:30 p.m. EDT for the Round One Best-of-3 Series. Fans can tune in on their favorite Apple devices via the Apple TV app, smart TVs and set-top boxes, game consoles, and on the web at tv.apple.com.

"We're offering Friday's match to fans worldwide on MLS Season Pass at no cost to celebrate an amazing season and Messi making his first-ever appearance in the MLS Cup Playoffs," said Eddy Cue, Apple's senior vice president of Services.

"This is a historic moment, and we're thrilled that viewers have such an extensive array of ways to watch."

Those who live close to an Apple Store may be able to catch the match there, as well. Additionally, DirectTV residential customers can tune in on channel 622, while DirectTV for Business customers can tune in on channel 9475.

There will be a TikTok exclusive view of the match titled "Player Spotlight: Messi" where the camera will be centered on Messi. The stream will be broadcast live on the MLS and InterMiamiCF TikTok profiles.

Fans looking for more Messi can check out Apple's six-part miniseries titled "Messi Meets America."

And if you want to get your own MLS Season Pass, you can purchase one for $9.99 for the remainder of the season. Existing Apple TV+ subscribers can sign up for a free subscription to MLS Season Pass for the remainder of the 2024 season.