Colorado Rapids
31st Season: A milestone year for the club in Major League Soccer.
The 2026 Colorado Rapids season marks the club's 31st year of existence and its 31st season in Major League Soccer (MLS), the top tier of American soccer. The team held a preseason training camp in Palm Beach, Florida, facing three opponents in closed-door friendlies. As of February 22, 2026, the roster includes players on loan. In the 2026 MLS SuperDraft, held on December 18, 2025, Colorado Rapids made six selections.
- season_number
- 31
- superdraft_date
- December 18, 2025
- superdraft_picks
- 6
- preseason_location
- Palm Beach, Florida
- preseason_matches
- 3
Lore & Background
The 2026 season is defined by the team's 31st consecutive year at the top level of American soccer. Following their December 18, 2025 draft where six players were selected, the squad moved into a preseason camp in Palm Beach, Florida. There, they played three closed-door friendlies against unnamed opponents before the league season began.
In Their Own Story
On December 18, 2025, the Colorado Rapids secured their future with six selections at the MLS SuperDraft. By February 22, 2026, the roster was set, including players currently out on loan. The team then traveled to Palm Beach, Florida, for a preseason training camp where they faced three opponents in closed-door matches, preparing for their 31st season in MLS.
Reader's Guide
The 2026 Colorado Rapids are competing in their 31st season of existence and MLS. Key dates include the 2026 MLS SuperDraft on December 18, 2025, where six picks were made. The team trained in Palm Beach, Florida, playing three closed-door friendlies before the regular season. All matches are played in Mountain Time.
Did You Know?
- The 2026 season is the Colorado Rapids' 31st year in Major League Soccer.
- The club made six selections during the 2026 MLS SuperDraft held on December 18, 2025.
- Preseason training took place in Palm Beach, Florida, featuring three closed-door friendlies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the Colorado Rapids in relation to LA Galaxy?
The Colorado Rapids are one of the two founding members of Major League Soccer, established alongside LA Galaxy in 1996. Together, they form 'The Original Rivals,' representing a historic clash between California and the Rocky Mountains.
What is the significance of this rivalry's history?
As both clubs were part of the league's inaugural class, their matchups define the early identity of MLS Western Conference competition. This enduring bond makes their games a unique fixture that transcends simple geography.
How do the trophy cabinets of these two teams compare?
While LA Galaxy has secured multiple MLS Cup championships throughout its history, the Colorado Rapids have never won the league's top title. This disparity adds an extra layer of intensity to their competitive encounters.
Why is this rivalry called 'The Original Rivals'?
This nickname stems from the fact that both teams were among the very first franchises created when MLS launched in 1996. Their long-standing competition has persisted longer than almost any other matchup in the league.
What styles do these teams bring to their matches?
The rivalry is often described as a clash of philosophies, pitting the entertainment-driven approach of Los Angeles against the high-altitude resilience of Denver. These contrasting regional identities fuel the unique dynamic of every meeting between them.