2026 MLS Season Preview: LAFC, Vancouver Whitecaps to Challenge Inter Miami

Powerhouse teams, big name signings and 2026 FIFA World Cup hype all serve as the backdrop to the 2026 Major League season.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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Less than three months ago, Inter Miami lifted the Philip F. Anschutz Trophy to claim MLS Cup glory for the first time in club history. Celebrations barely ceased in south Florida before preparations began for 2026 as the Herons—and the league's 29 other clubs—started anew in the offseason, with their sights set on silverware. The added pressure of performing throughout the United States and Canada in the same year as the two countries, along with Mexico, host this summer's World Cup sets the stage for the biggest and most competitive MLS season yet ... and that's before any more blockbuster signings potentially join the league after the sport's biggest tournament.

Why it matters

The lofty expectations show just how much the league has grown over the last decade, continuing to reach new heights some observers thought impossible for MLS. The 2026 season will be no exception, especially when the entire league is vying to steal the Herons' crown.

The details

Inter Miami come into 2026 with a squad, confidence and swagger not many—if any —teams in MLS can contend with, especially in big-time moments. The Concacaf Champions Cup and 2026 World Cup could distract the Herons from their domestic goals, though, leaving the door open for LAFC to challenge for their crown. The Black & Gold were two penalties away from facing off with Inter Miami in last season's MLS Cup final, and Son Heung-min will have nothing but redemption on the mind this season. Counting out 2025 MLS Cup runners-up Vancouver Whitecaps would be foolish. After all, they were simply dominant last season, coming within three points of winning the Supporters' Shield.

  • Less than three months ago, Inter Miami lifted the Philip F. Anschutz Trophy to claim MLS Cup glory for the first time in club history.
  • The 2026 MLS season kicks off this Saturday.

The players

Lionel Messi

A 38-year-old Argentine soccer player who plays for Inter Miami.

Rodrigo De Paul

An Argentine soccer player who helped Inter Miami win their first-ever MLS Cup.

Germán Berterame

A 27-year-old Argentine soccer player who recently transferred from Monterrey to Inter Miami.

Son Heung-min

A South Korean soccer player who plays for LAFC.

Thomas Müller

A German soccer player who plays for the Vancouver Whitecaps.

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What’s next

The 2026 MLS season kicks off this Saturday, with all 30 teams vying to dethrone reigning champions Inter Miami.

The takeaway

The 2026 MLS season promises to be the most competitive and exciting yet, with powerhouse teams, big-name signings, and the added hype of the 2026 FIFA World Cup all serving as the backdrop for what is sure to be a thrilling campaign.