PRFC Releases 2026 schedule

Phoenix Rising has officially released its 2026 season schedule, outlining a demanding campaign that runs from early March through late October. As in every season, the schedule tests more than just tactics and depth—it once again places a spotlight on one of the most challenging factors in Arizona soccer: the heat.

The season begins on Saturday, March 7, with a steady run of spring fixtures across March and April. These early matches are typically played under more forgiving conditions, giving Phoenix Rising the opportunity to build momentum before temperatures rise. April and May are filled primarily with Saturday matches, offering consistency for both players and supporters as the season takes shape.

Phoenix Rising FC 2026 Season Schedule Courtesy of Phoenix Rising FC.

As summer arrives, the environment becomes a central storyline. Matches in June, July, and August are played during some of the hottest months in the country, with temperatures frequently reaching triple digits. The 2026 schedule includes several midweek fixtures during this period, adding another layer of difficulty as recovery time becomes limited. Managing fitness, hydration, and squad rotation will be essential for sustained success.

Phoenix Rising’s home matches during the summer months present a unique challenge for visiting teams. Competing in the desert heat demands discipline and endurance, and the conditions often turn home fixtures into a significant advantage. These matches frequently test both physical resilience and mental focus, especially during tightly packed stretches of the schedule.

September marks a critical phase of the season. While temperatures begin to ease slightly, the intensity increases as playoff positioning comes into focus. Every point becomes more valuable, and the ability to carry form through the long summer often separates contenders from the rest of the field.

The regular season concludes in October, when cooler conditions coincide with high-stakes matches. By this stage, teams that have successfully navigated both the schedule and the Arizona heat are typically the ones best prepared for postseason play.

The 2026 schedule reinforces a familiar reality for Phoenix Rising: success requires not only talent and preparation, but the ability to endure one of the most physically demanding environments in professional soccer.