MLS Players’ Association and the league managed to reach a deal that addresses economic issues caused by the coronavirus pandemic and might also save the 2020 MLS season.
MLS and MLSPA were engaged in negotiations over the past several weeks but saw significant difficulties in getting on the same page. At one point, the league reportedly even threatened to impose a lockout if players don’t accept its terms.
After further talks, however, MLSPA ended up voting to approve the league’s proposal for a new collective bargaining agreement. The new CBA will impose several measures in an attempt to minimize the unexpected economic difficulties like 7.5% pay cuts across the leagues and several caps including having individual and performance bonuses limited to $5 million in 2020.
The majority of the terms from old CBA, which was agreed upon back in February but was never ratified, are still expected to be in effect starting with a one year delay. The length of the CBA is also extended until 2026.
The positive outcome of the MLS Players’ Association voting simultaneously paved the way for the 2020 season resume. The first step will be a tournament that will take place at Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando. The teams are expected to make the trip in three weeks, although the exact start date is still to be announced.
“MLS Players today ratified a new collective bargaining agreement, which will run through the 2025 season,” said the MLSPA in a statement. “Today’s vote also finalizes a plan to resume the 2020 season and provides players with certainty for the months ahead. It allows our members to move forward and continue to compete in the game they love.”
