Walmart(US:WMT) Businesswire·2026-01-27 15:00Core Concept - Major League Soccer (MLS) has launched the Walmart Saturday Showdown, a weekly highlight of marquee matchups throughout the regular season, starting with the match between Inter Miami CF and Los Angeles Football Club on February 21, 2026 [1][2] Group 1: Event Details - The Walmart Saturday Showdown aims to create a consistent viewing experience for fans, allowing them to plan around significant games each Saturday [2] - The inaugural match will take place at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, featuring defending MLS Cup champion Inter Miami CF [1] - The first matches of the 2026 MLS regular season include notable games such as Real Salt Lake vs. Seattle Sounders FC on February 28, 2026, and LA Galaxy vs. Sporting Kansas City on March 14, 2026 [8] Group 2: Partnership and Engagement - The initiative is part of a multi-year partnership between Walmart and MLS, focusing on enhancing fan engagement and community building [9] - Walmart's Chief Marketing Officer emphasized the importance of access and community in connecting fans with MLS matchups [2] - The partnership aims to reinforce Walmart's commitment to celebrating soccer and engaging with the league's supporters [9] Group 3: Enhanced Viewing Experience - The Walmart Saturday Showdown will feature enhanced production and broadcast experiences on Apple TV, designed to immerse fans in the matchday atmosphere [3] - A unique "Shot on iPhone" view will provide dynamic angles and capture key moments, enhancing the viewing experience [4] - Match highlights will be shared across MLS and Walmart's social channels, allowing fans to engage with memorable moments [4] Group 4: Fan Activation - An immersive fan experience will be held in Los Angeles on February 20, 2026, to celebrate the launch of Walmart Saturday Showdown [5] - The event will include MLS legends, interactive games, and previews of the season's offerings, aimed at boosting fan engagement [6] - This activation marks the beginning of several initiatives designed to enhance fan interaction throughout the season [6] Group 5: Future Outlook - The launch of Walmart Saturday Showdown is seen as a significant step for MLS as it prepares for its 31st season in 2026, aiming to create exciting experiences for fans [7] - MLS is committed to fostering a sense of community and enhancing the narrative around its most exciting matchups [7]