MLS had been looking for $20 million (€15 million) per year in its contract renewal discussions, seven times the amount Fox paid in its previous four-year contract from 2007 to 2010. Fox and the MLS have been broadcast partners since 2003.
Fox will now broadcast 31 regular-season games, two games fewer than in the previous contract, and three MLS Cup playoff matches including a conference final. The package includes 15 matches on Saturday nights and 14 on Friday nights, with 20 of the 31 regular-season games exclusive to Fox. Fox will begin its coverage with the match between MLS Cup champions Colorado Rapids and Portland Timbers on March 19.