CF Montréal is strategically preparing to navigate Major League Soccer's newly unveiled calendar, which will see the club playing more matches during Quebec's notoriously cold winter months. Club CEO Gabriel Gervais addressed media on Friday, confirming the organization's proactive approach to the significant league-wide changes.
Embracing the International Soccer Calendar
The revamped MLS schedule, set to begin in 2027, represents one of the most substantial shifts in league history as it aligns with the international soccer calendar. The new format will run from July through May, with the MLS Cup final scheduled for late May. A key feature includes a seasonal break from mid-December until early February, during which no matches will be played.
Gervais, who participated extensively in the planning process alongside owner the Saputo family, emphasized that protecting fan and partner interests remained paramount throughout discussions. While he maintained confidentiality regarding the club's specific vote on the changes, he acknowledged the schedule overhaul as a landmark development for North American soccer.
Navigating the Quebec Winter
The most pressing challenge for CF Montréal involves scheduling home games during the coldest months—primarily November and February, with March also presenting potential weather complications. Under the current schedule, the team typically plays several consecutive away matches early in the season. This pattern is expected to shift to mid-season sequences under the new format.
However, Gervais provided crucial context, noting that 31 of the 34 match dates in the schedule simulation remain essentially unchanged from current arrangements. "Yes, there are some changes in November, December, and a little bit in February, but it doesn't change our reality that much," Gervais stated during the media briefing.
The Olympic Stadium Solution
The long-term solution for winter games centers on Montreal's iconic Olympic Stadium, which is undergoing extensive roof renovations. Gervais confirmed that the renovated venue will be available for MLS matches in 2028, providing a climate-controlled environment for games during inclement weather.
This development will mark a significant upgrade from the current setup at Saputo Stadium, which Gervais confirmed will not be winterized. The timeline aligns strategically with the transitional 2027 schedule, which will feature 14 games—seven home and seven away—from February to May, determining qualification for parallel competitions like the Canadian Championship.
While the exact date for the Olympic Stadium's availability remains unspecified, the 2028 completion provides CF Montréal with a clear pathway to comfortably host matches throughout the extended season, ensuring the club remains competitive while embracing MLS's global alignment.
