NWSL sets February start, summer break for 2027 World Cup

The NWSL has revealed the schedule footprint for its 2027 season, confirming the earliest start in league history and a lengthy pause for the Women's World Cup. According to The Guardian, the regular season will kick off on 11 February with Angel City hosting the opening match in Los Angeles, three days before Super Bowl LXI is played in the same city.

The annual Challenge Cup, matching the reigning champion against the NWSL Shield winner, will be held on 6 February at a location yet to be determined. The league's plans also include a seven-week summer break to accommodate the 2027 Women's World Cup, which will take centre stage during the hiatus.

The Guardian reports the schedule comes as the NWSL navigates a changing landscape. The shift of Major League Soccer's calendar and the collapse of the Victory+ streaming service present both opportunities and challenges for the league as it explores new broadcast and distribution options.

The February start marks a significant change for the NWSL, which has traditionally opened later in the spring. The early kickoff in LA places the league in the spotlight alongside one of the biggest events on the US sporting calendar, while the extended mid-season pause will test squad depth and viewer engagement.