This archive report was first published on 12 June 2020.
On July 8, the Major League Soccer (MLS) will resume action after a four-month break due to the coronavirus pandemic shutdown.
The league will transition from a regular season format to a tournament format, with all 26 clubs competing in a controlled environment.
MLS Commissioner Dan Garber stated that the league has implemented elaborate plans to ensure a safe return to play, including extensive medical protocols and a comprehensive testing plan developed by infectious disease experts.
"The opportunity to have all 26 clubs in a controlled environment enables us to help protect the health of our players, coaches, and staff as we return to play," Garber said.
"Together with our owners, players, and staff, the League and its clubs are deeply committed to creating meaningful and impactful programs to address issues of racial injustice, inequality, and violence against black men and women," he added.
As part of the league's efforts to combat racism, all 54 matches will air on MLS partner networks, with all matches played in Orlando.
