MLS plans to start 2021 season in early March

Major League Soccer is aiming to start the 2021 season in early March despite COVID-19 concerns, deputy commissioner Mark Abbott announced Saturday.

"Based on the crowded international calendar next year, we are targeting to start our season in early March, as usual," Abbott said.

"The restrictions on our ability to have fans in our stadiums this year contributed to very significant financial losses. Like all leagues, we are concerned about those restrictions continuing for a second year and are continually evaluating how to manage through the impact of the pandemic in 2021."

Several international tournaments will take place in 2021, including the CONCACAF Gold Cup, European Championship, Copa America, and Olympics in addition to World Cup qualifying.

The league has yet to decide how long the regular season will be or when the 2021 MLS Cup will be held, according to The Athletic's Paul Tenorio.

The 2020 campaign kicked off at the end of February but was suspended two weeks later due to the pandemic. Play resumed in July with the MLS is Back Tournament before the resumption of the regular season. The playoffs begin Nov. 20 and will conclude Dec. 12.