Lionel Messi is hooking his fans up with a pretty sweet deal. On Sunday, the Inter Miami superstar shared a promotion on his social media accounts that allows fans to redeem a one-month free trial of MLS Season Pass on Apple TV. The deal is valid for both new and eligible returning customers worldwide, and after the promotional period, they will be charged the standard rate of $14.99 monthly (or $12.99 for Apple TV+ subscribers).
Apple and MLS have been making concerted efforts this season to enhance accessibility for MLS Season Pass. The league has made games available via Xfinity and DirecTV, renewed a promotional partnership with T-Mobile for free access, and launched a new Sunday Night Soccer package for Apple TV+ subscribers outside the Season Pass. Despite these initiatives, challenges remain; one MLS executive mentioned the need to “end the deal with Apple” in favor of gaining more linear exposure. MLS has also entered into several linear television deals internationally to attract more Season Pass subscribers.
Messi’s free trial promotion is expected to provide significant exposure for the league, given that the global superstar has over 500 million followers on social media. If even a small percentage convert to Season Pass subscribers, it will greatly benefit MLS.
