Pandemic Could Force MLS To Push Back Start Of '21 Season

The ongoing pandemic could impact MLS "far beyond this fall’s playoffs by pushing the start of the 2021 season back," according to Kevin Baxter of the L.A. TIMES. A source said that MLS "may be hesitant to start a new season in empty stadiums since income is its largest source of revenue." The delay would "presumably last until a majority of teams were given permission by local health officials to allow spectators back into their stadiums." However, the "ominous trends" from top European soccer leagues show that "could be a while." The EPL and LaLiga "are still playing in empty stadiums" while the Bundesliga, Serie A and Ligue 1 "are playing before limited audiences" (L.A. TIMES, 10/20).