The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) has announced that it will not play games in June 2026 to accommodate the start of the 2026 Men’s World Cup, which will be primarily hosted in the United States. This decision comes as the league aims to align with the international soccer calendar and provide support for the global event.
The 2026 World Cup, which will feature 48 teams, is set to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The NWSL’s decision to pause its regular season schedule during this period is expected to minimize logistical challenges and ensure that the league can focus on its own events without overlapping with the World Cup fixtures.
League officials emphasized that this break will allow for better planning and coordination with the International足 Association (FIFA) as well as the host countries. The pause in the schedule does not indicate a decrease in the league’s commitment to women’s soccer but rather a strategic adjustment to support a major international tournament.
As the 2026 Men’s World Cup approaches, the NWSL’s decision to take a break in June aligns with the global soccer calendar, which often involves similar adjustments for women’s leagues to accommodate men’s competitions. This move reflects the league’s dedication to fostering a supportive environment for international soccer events.