MLS eyes new growth chapter as Larry Berg appointed commissioner
Major League Soccer announced on Monday that Larry Berg, part‑owner of Los Angeles Football Club, will assume the league’s commissioner role on 1 January 2027, with Don Garber moving to the chairman position. The transition sets the stage for a new leadership era in MLS.
Berg will become only the third commissioner in MLS history, succeeding Don Garber who has held the post since 1999. The succession marks a rare change at the top after more than two decades, highlighting a clear succession narrative for the League.
During Garber’s tenure, MLS expanded from ten clubs to its current thirty, cementing the league’s footprint across North America. This expansion reflects sustained growth under his guidance and underscores the League’s evolution under its leadership.
“I’m honored to lead Major League Soccer into its next era,” Berg said. “We have an extraordinary opportunity to strengthen the quality of our competition, develop more world‑class players, deepen our connection with supporters, and continue elevating Major League Soccer’s place in the global game.”
Beyond his LAFC stake, Berg brings a private‑equity and finance background, having helped the Western Conference side win one MLS Cup, two Supporters’ Shields and a U.S. Open Cup. His experience blends business acumen with on‑field success.
League rules require Berg to divest his ownership share in Los Angeles Football Club before assuming the commissioner role, ensuring separation between club ownership and league leadership. The MLS’ governance framework mandates the divestiture.
“Larry Berg is the right leader for Major League Soccer’s next chapter,” said Jimmy Haslam, CEO and chairman of Haslam Sports Group and co‑chair of the MLS Succession Committee. He added that Berg’s deep understanding of the league and global perspective will guide MLS into its next era of growth.
2027 will also mark a structural shift as MLS moves to a summer‑to‑spring calendar ahead of a 2028 “sprint season”, aiming to align the competition with broader strategic goals. The shift is expected to enhance competition timing and market exposure.