The NWSL dropped the framework for its 2027 season on Wednesday, and it's unlike any schedule the league has run before. To make room for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup, the league is starting earlier and pausing longer in its 15th season. The 2027 start is a full month earlier than any previous NWSL start. Scheduling around the World CupThe early start is primarily because of the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup, which will take place in Brazil. The Challenge Cup returns as a lead-inThe 2027 NWSL Challenge Cup will be on Saturday, February 6, a week before the season begins.