how long does the US take off after the world cup before season starts back up

The U.S. usually takes about 7 weeks off during a World Cup in MLS terms, with the 2026 MLS calendar paused from May 25 to July 16 for the tournament, then restarting right after the World Cup semifinals.

What that means

• The break is long because clubs release players for the tournament and then give them time to return and reset.

• In 2026, MLS specifically built in a seven-week hiatus , which is much longer than the breaks used in earlier World Cups.

• The league resumes while the World Cup is still finishing, since the final is scheduled for July 19.

In plain English

If you mean the domestic season, the U.S. takes roughly a month and a half off around the World Cup, then season play starts back up quickly after.

TL;DR

About 7 weeks. MLS in 2026 pauses for the World Cup from late May to mid- July, then returns to action.