ESPN reported the NWSL board of governors will vote later this month on shifting the league's calendar, looking to flip the current NWSL schedule from spring-to-fall to a European-style fall-to-spring format.
The league currently kicks off in March and ends in November. The new NWSL schedule would start in late summer and conclude in late spring, aligning the league with both European competitions and the MLS, as the US men's league plans to make the transition next year.
The board narrowly voted down a similar proposal in late 2024. However, momentum appears to be building for the change among league executives.
Proponents believe the shift would improve transfer business with European clubs while also allowing the league to operate more easily around FIFA international windows. Commissioner Jessica Berman additionally noted the NWSL coverage would avoid overlapping with MLS and secure better TV slots in late spring.
The NWSL has endured two consecutive midseason breaks for international competitions. Last year, the league paused for the 2025 Euros, while this year's men's World Cup subsequently brings another monthlong pause.
However, players strongly oppose the change. The NWSLPA released a statement saying most players currently reject the calendar flip.
"The right question is not whether the league should flip the calendar, but whether the right conditions exist to do so responsibly," the union told ESPN. "Right now, they do not."
The union cited concerns about facility availability and weather-related disruptions across cold-weather markets. Critics also point to potential attendance drops during frigid conditions, with summer heat already creating issues.
The CBA gives the league discretion to make the change. However, the NWSL must provide one year's notice to the NWSLPA.
Even with approval, implementation could take years, with natural transition points including the 2028 LA Olympics and 2031 Women's World Cup.
