Major League Soccer is preparing for a significant leadership change following a meeting of league owners in New York City this Monday. Larry Berg, currently a co-owner of Los Angeles FC, has been selected to succeed Don Garber as the next commissioner of the league. Berg will become only the third individual to hold this prestigious title in the history of MLS, taking over a role that Garber has occupied since 1999.
A Strategic Transition Timeline for League Leadership
While Don Garber remains under contract through the conclusion of the 2027 season, the league has mapped out a phased succession plan to ensure stability. Garber will continue to serve as commissioner through the 2026 season—a pivotal year for soccer in North America. On January 1, 2027, Larry Berg will officially assume the commissioner’s office. During that final year of his contract, Garber will transition into a chairman role, providing an overlap period designed to facilitate a seamless handoff of league operations.
Larry Berg’s Vision for the Future of MLS
In a formal statement released by the league, Berg expressed his gratitude and excitement for the opportunity to guide Major League Soccer into a new chapter. He noted that while the league has seen immense growth thanks to the commitment of various stakeholders, he believes the most significant milestones are yet to come. Berg highlighted several key priorities for his upcoming tenure, including improving the quality of on-field competition, fostering world-class talent, strengthening the bond between clubs and their supporters, and boosting the league’s reputation on the international stage.
Professional Background and the Path to the Commissioner’s Office
Berg’s rise to the top of the league hierarchy follows a successful stint with LAFC’s ownership group, where he played a vital role in transforming the expansion side into one of the league’s premier franchises. As part of his move to the commissioner’s office, Berg will divest his ownership stakes in the Los Angeles club to avoid conflicts of interest. Beyond his work in soccer, Berg brings a wealth of executive experience from the corporate sector, including previous roles at McGraw-Hill Education and Apollo Global Management.
He is already deeply integrated into the league’s governance, serving as the co-chair of the MLS Sporting & Competition Committee. In this capacity, he has been instrumental in planning one of the most drastic shifts in league history: the transition to a European-style fall-to-spring calendar. This transition is slated for late 2027, following a condensed “sprint season” that will run from February to May of that year.
Navigating Upcoming Challenges and Expansion
Berg will take the helm at a time of significant transition and potential friction. Several critical items are already on his agenda, including the negotiation of a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) and a new television rights deal. Additionally, Berg will need to address localized issues, such as the expiring lease for the Vancouver Whitecaps at BC Place, while evaluating the potential for further league expansion.
The selection process was managed by the MLS Succession Committee, co-chaired by owners Bennett Rosenthal and Jimmy Haslam. The committee, which included prominent board members like Joe Mansueto and Jonathan Kraft, worked alongside the advisory firm Korn Ferry and Don Garber himself to narrow the field. Ultimately, the choice came down to Berg and David Nathansen, with the owners favoring Berg’s deep league ties and business acumen.
Reflecting on Don Garber’s Transformative Legacy
As Larry Berg prepares to step in, he follows a nearly three-decade era defined by Don Garber’s leadership. Since 1999, Garber has overseen an unprecedented period of expansion, growing the league from just 10 teams to 30. His tenure also prioritized infrastructure, resulting in the construction of 26 soccer-specific stadiums across the United States and Canada. With soccer interest in North America reaching record heights ahead of the 2026 World Cup, Berg inherits a league that is more stable and popular than ever before, yet poised for further evolution under his new direction.
Summary of MLS Leadership Changes
The appointment of Larry Berg marks a historic turning point for Major League Soccer. By choosing a leader with a background in both high-level private equity and successful club ownership, MLS owners are signaling a focus on commercial growth and global competitiveness. The planned overlap between Garber and Berg suggests the league is prioritizing institutional knowledge as it navigates complex changes, including the shift to a global calendar and upcoming labor negotiations. As the 2026 World Cup approaches, this leadership transition will define how the league capitalizes on the sport’s rising momentum in North America.
