MLS is bringing its gaming franchise to the big screen beginning Sunday evening when the league and Fox Sports will begin airing a five-episode eMLS Tournament Special that will see MLS and eMLS players on the same clubs compete in single-elimination FIFA 20 tournaments. Matches will air on FS1, Fox Deportes and the Fox Sports app. "The eMLS tournament is a great example of providing fans a break from that new reality and making it easier for our community to stay at home and continue to practice social distancing," said MLS Senior VP/Properties & Events Camilo Durana. MLS players will compete against one another in the first of two legs followed by eMLS players in the second one, with the best aggregate score advancing. The four winners from the first four episodes will participate in the final episode on May 17 to determine a champion. Fox Sports talent will include Stu Holden, Rachel Bonnetta and Rodolfo Landeros, as well as Mike LaBelle on the gaming color commentary. Coca Cola and PlayStation will have presenting sponsorship while Cheez-It, Scuf Gaming and Pringles will also be featured. MLS worked with Engine Shop, its agency of record for all eMLS events, to produce the new tournament.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE: Following each episode, Fox Sports and MLS Works, the league’s social responsibility initiative, will make a donation to Feeding America while the league will support Food Banks Canada. Fox Sports VP/Rights & Business Relationships Joe Franzetta said, "We are thrilled to partner with MLS on this innovative project, which will entertain viewers during this difficult time while also helping to support COVID-19 relief efforts."
