UPDATE: The New York Red Bulls have officially missed the MLS playoffs for the first time in 15 years, following a pivotal loss in playoff contention. The team’s fate was sealed on Tuesday night when the Chicago Fire defeated Inter Miami 5-3, eliminating the Red Bulls from playoff eligibility.
This marks the end of the longest active playoff streak in North American professional sports. The Red Bulls needed a Chicago loss to maintain their slim hopes after falling to playoff rival New York City FC over the weekend. With only two matches left in the season, these games are now rendered meaningless.
In a striking coincidence, the last time the Red Bulls failed to qualify for the postseason was in 2009, a year after reaching the MLS Cup Final. Just last year, the team made a surprising run to the championship game against the Los Angeles Galaxy, setting high expectations for this season that have now come crashing down during a challenging 2025 campaign.
“I know everyone is disappointed to maybe not have the qualification for the playoffs. I’m the first one about that,” stated Red Bulls head coach Sandro Schwarz after the heartbreaking loss to NYCFC. He acknowledged the impact of injuries, saying, “But I would say, there was some injuries and without some moments…the current situation for me is not the biggest surprise right now. But what I can say is we are trying everything until the end.”
The Red Bulls have not experienced the same competitive spirit that propelled them to the MLS Cup Final last year. Key player Lewis Morgan has been sidelined since June due to a quad injury, contributing to the team’s struggles this season. Despite the pressing need for reinforcements, the club failed to secure a significant signing during the summer transfer window, and a potential deal for Timo Werner from RB Leipzig did not materialize.
As the Red Bulls approach their final home game this Saturday against Cincinnati, fans are left to reflect on a disappointing season and what could have been. The team will then close out the season on the road in Columbus.
The emotional weight of this development cannot be understated, as fans and players alike grapple with the end of an era. The Red Bulls’ future hangs in the balance as they prepare for a crucial offseason. Will they regroup and reclaim their status as playoff contenders in the coming years? Only time will tell.
Stay tuned for updates as the situation continues to evolve.
