The 2026 FIFA World Cup is on the horizon, and it’s already influencing the soccer landscape in the United States, particularly the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). Major League Soccer (MLS) has previously announced a season pause during the World Cup, suggesting broader shifts in scheduling.

With the majority of matches happening in the U.S., as well as select cities in Canada and Mexico, the NWSL wants to ensure it plays a vital role despite the World Cup overshadowing its events.

Jessica Berman, the commissioner of the NWSL, discussed these challenges and opportunities during the Associated Press Sports Editors commissioner meetings. She expressed concern about potential displacement of NWSL clubs but sees an opportunity to use this spotlight to engage and expand their fan base.

As the NWSL’s season overlaps with the World Cup’s summer schedule in 2026, commissioner Berman acknowledged, “When we realized two, three years ago that our season is going to overlap with the men’s World Cup, we thought, ‘We want to show up, but this is not our World Cup.’”

Despite the hurdles, the league is determined to remain visible and find innovative ways to engage fans, potentially adjusting schedules and pursuing beneficial broadcasting windows. Berman emphasized the importance of connecting with the World Cup audience to establish the NWSL as a complementary option for soccer fans.

Furthermore, with major international events lined up following the World Cup, including the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil in 2027 and the 2028 Olympics, Berman believes the 2026 event could integrate into these larger international narratives, helping elevate the NWSL in the broader soccer dialogue.

While specifics are still being determined, the NWSL is committed to being present during this monumental event in soccer, promising to engage creatively, whether through targeted marketing campaigns or scheduled events.