Larry Berg Appointed as Next MLS Commissioner

Los Angeles FC co-owner Larry Berg has been named the next commissioner of Major League Soccer (MLS). The decision was made by MLS owners, who hope Berg will guide the league into greater prominence among American sports fans and global soccer leagues. His term will officially begin on January 1, 2027, following a transition period with outgoing commissioner Don Garber.

During his time, Garber transformed the league from a struggling 10-team entity to a thriving organization with 23 soccer-specific stadiums and youth academies for each team. “I’ve experienced this sport as a player, a fan, and owner, and now with tremendous humility as commissioner,” Berg said at an introductory press conference. “The future of Major League Soccer has never been brighter.”

Transition and Future Prospects

The transition is critical as MLS looks to enhance attendance and ratings following the FIFA World Cup in North America. Next year, the league plans to shift its calendar to align with Europe’s professional leagues. Berg is facing several challenges, including labor negotiations and a media rights deal with Apple TV that expires in 2029.

Berg was chosen from 125 candidates, boasting a background in private equity. Los Angeles FC, which Berg has co-owned since its founding in 2014, is considered one of the most effectively run MLS franchises.

Who is Larry Berg?

Berg is primarily recognized for his role as co-owner of Los Angeles FC, which debuted in 2018. Under his leadership, the team secured an MLS Cup and a U.S. Open Cup, twice finishing as the league’s top regular-season team. He’s also served as co-chair of the MLS Sporting and Competition Committee.

Growing up in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, Berg started playing soccer at age 8. He studied economics and business at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School and Harvard University. Berg later pursued a career in private equity, becoming a senior partner at Apollo Global Management.

Berg’s Vision for MLS

In 2020, Berg confidently envisioned MLS overtaking hockey and baseball to become the third most popular sport in the U.S. behind football and basketball. He reiterated that belief at the press conference.

“As we look ahead five to ten years from now, I hope people won’t simply say that Major League Soccer got bigger. I hope they’ll say it got better — better competition, better player development, stronger clubs, deeper connections with supporters, greater success internationally, and a league that inspired more young people across North America to fall in love with this game,” Berg stated.

Challenges Ahead

MLS faces significant challenges concerning roster rules and spending restrictions, with owners wanting to simplify regulations and increase spending. Any changes may involve negotiations with the MLS players’ union, whose contract runs until January 31, 2028.

The league’s media rights deal with Apple TV is another major concern. Currently set at $250 million per year, leadership believes this figure may grow. Berg emphasizes the importance of media partnerships and co-creation, referring to the potential adaptation of measures, such as ‘hydration breaks’, to suit partners’ needs.

Promotion and Relegation

The idea of a promotion-relegation system akin to Europe’s leagues persists among some fans. However, Berg opposes the concept, noting the financial risks and investment deterrents associated with relegation. “I don’t think it’s a great way to build the league,” he declared.