To many Colorado Rapids fans, Apple TV is a rescue helicopter after they wandered the wilderness of the internet looking for ways to watch the Burgundy Boys play the past few seasons.
With the 10-year, $2.5 billion blackout-free TV deal between the tech giant and Major League Soccer set to begin, Rapids fans stand to benefit as much as any MLS fanbase from the new broadcast agreement.
The dispute between Altitude TV and Comcast and DISH Network subscribers had blacked out games for many Rapids fans dating back to August 2019. For a team that is already on the peripherals of the Denver sports landscape, losing eyeballs for three seasons was detrimental. But starting Wednesday those willing to sign up for Apple TV’s MLS package will be welcomed back into the fold.
In response to a tweet asking Rapids fans what they thought about the new deal, here’s what they had to say:
Possibilities to bring in more fans
First, the deal could expand the reach of the team, and bring together those who have missed out.
“My wife and I have wanted to embrace the Rapids since moving back to Denver a few years ago, but it’s been impossible without being able to watch games. I consider this season our first chance at true Rapids fandom,” Denver resident Eric Haglund wrote.
For families with young kids, it presents a new opportunity to fall in love with the sport for the first time.
“Hoping to watch the Rapids with my 8- and 6-year-old boys who have never had a chance to see them play. They thought the Switchbacks were the only Colorado team,” Colorado Springs resident Kevan Lacey wrote.
Service comes at a price
Consumers can subscribe to MLS Season Pass on the Apple TV app for $14.99 per month, or $99 per season, and Apple TV+ subscribers can sign up for $12.99 per month, or $79 per season. The service will be free for season ticket holders.
Select games — 34 per season, including Colorado’s season-opener at Seattle — will be simulcasted on FOX and FS1. The Season Pass subscription will include every regular season, playoff and Leagues Cup game and all games will be available in English and Spanish language broadcast.
“The Apple MLS Season Pass is part of why I plan to get season tickets for the first time. I watched enough games where I could easily justify (the cost),” Denver resident Jarrett Wadler wrote. “…The recent signings showed me the Rapids are serious about competing and pushed me over the edge to become a (season ticket member).”
No more VPNs needed
Duane Brown said he was one of the many supporters who found “creative” ways to watch Colorado the past few years, with others saying they were tired of haggling with streaming sites and VPNs. Apple TV is accessible in over 100 countries, and up to six family members can share a Season Pass subscription each using independent Apple ID’s via “Family Sharing”.
“Unless they’ve randomly been on a channel that wasn’t blacked out, I haven’t regularly watched the Rapids in years,” Ken H., a Denver resident, wrote. “I don’t have the time nor the energy to chase streams. I just want to sit down, turn on the TV, and watch the match. I’m excited for the Apple for that reason alone.”
As supporters from across the Mountain West chimed in with their experiences, now, the overwhelming sense with the new TV deal is hope — even for those in rivalry country.
“I live in a neighborhood where our (Home Owners Association) pays for Xfinity, so I don’t get any of the games. … Fans outside of Colorado have suffered as well,” Jasen Asay, of Salt Lake City, wrote. “I’m so excited to watch the Rapids this season on Apple TV. It’s hard enough being a Rapids fan living in enemy territory, but not being able to watch the games has been brutal.”
MLS Season Pass launches Wednesday morning with the regular-season kicking off Feb. 25.
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