Double-elimination, reseeding and 20 teams: MLS plans potential overhaul of playoffs
Format would resemble that of Australian rules football
TL;DR
- MLS is considering a major playoff format overhaul for 2028.
- Potential changes include a double-elimination component and up to 20 playoff teams.
- The new format will coincide with the league's shift to a fall-to-spring schedule.
- All teams would be ranked in a single table, with the top 20 advancing.
- A double-elimination round for the top eight teams aims to incentivize regular season performance.
- Teams would be re-seeded after each round.
- The proposed format is similar to that used in Australian rules football.
- MLS has a history of altering its playoff format multiple times.
- The league has not yet made any formal decisions on the future of the playoffs.