NWSL to kick off 2027 season in February amid busy international schedule

The National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) is set to begin its 2027 season earlier than usual, with games commencing on February 11 in Los Angeles. This strategic shift aims to synchronize the league's schedule with a packed international calendar, notably including the 2027 Women's World Cup. The global tournament is slated to take place in Brazil from June 24 to July 25.

The league announced the change on Wednesday, confirming that the regular season will conclude with the championship game on November 20. This adjustment means the NWSL will mirror the scheduling patterns of its prominent European counterparts, starting approximately one month earlier than it did for the 2026 season. The move also follows a significant calendar restructuring by Major League Soccer (MLS), North America's top men's league, which announced a transition to a summer-to-spring schedule, aligning with European leagues, beginning in 2027.

The early start in February places the NWSL's opening just three days before the Super Bowl is scheduled to be held in the same city, Los Angeles. The league's decision reflects a broader trend in professional soccer towards aligning domestic schedules with major international competitions and European league timings, aiming to enhance player welfare and global competitiveness.