Lionel Messi and Inter Miami CF took center stage on opening night as Major League Soccer launched its new sprint season format, signaling a significant structural change for the league.
The season opener on October 24, 2026, at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey, featured a match between the New York Red Bulls and Inter Miami CF. Messi, wearing the number 10 jersey, was photographed ahead of the kickoff.
The revamped schedule, described as a sprint season, aims to condense the competitive calendar and increase intensity. Further details on the format changes are expected as the season progresses.
