MLB Cancels London Games Due to Stadium Issues

Major League Baseball has decided to cancel plans for two games in London next year, primarily due to complications with the stadium logistics.

Commissioner Rob Manfred made the announcement during a recent event in New York City, confirming the cancellation. The games were set to feature the Yankees and Blue Jays at London Stadium on June 13 and 14, 2026. However, the soccer season’s finale for West Ham United on May 24 leaves insufficient time to prepare the field for baseball.

With the World Cup also scheduled for June, it’s worth noting that Fox couldn’t secure broadcast slots for the games later that month.

This cancellation marks the second time MLB has had to abandon a European game, with earlier plans for a matchup in Paris falling through due to difficulties in finding a promoter.

MLB made its inaugural appearance in London back in 2019, when the Yankees and Red Sox went head-to-head in two games. More recently, in 2024, the Mets and Phillies played at the same stadium.

Manfred reiterated the league’s desire to expand its presence in European markets. He mentioned that London is a key focus for their efforts moving forward. “There’s still a lot of potential,” he said, acknowledging the progress made since the initial game between the Yankees and Red Sox. “I believe that through London, we can connect with other developed markets in Europe.”

During the same event, Manfred discussed upcoming media rights deals, noting that NBCUniversal is expected to secure a wild card playoff round and a Sunday night game in the regular season, while Netflix is set to acquire rights for the home run derby.

As for ESPN, without Sunday Night Games, they will be involved with weekday regular season games. “We’re pushing to finalize these publicly reported contracts,” Manfred added, hinting at the ongoing negotiations.