Los Angeles FC co-owner Larry Berg has been appointed as the next commissioner of Major League Soccer (MLS). Berg will officially start his role on January 1, 2027, succeeding outgoing commissioner Don Garber.
Garber’s tenure transformed MLS from a struggling 10-team entity to a developed league with soccer-specific stadiums and youth academies. Berg believes in a bright future for MLS, expressing hope to advance the league further.
The league aims to boost attendance and ratings post-FIFA World Cup 2026, changing its season calendar to align with European leagues. Challenges such as labor negotiations and a media rights deal expiration with Apple TV in 2029 lie ahead.
Who is Larry Berg?
Larry Berg is recognized for his co-ownership of Los Angeles FC, a successful MLS franchise. Under his leadership, LAFC achieved notable successes, including winning the MLS Cup and the U.S. Open Cup.
Berg has been involved in the league’s Sporting and Competition Committee. His modern perspective contributed to significant changes, such as the upcoming calendar shift.
Berg’s Background
Berg, 60, grew up playing soccer in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. He later pursued a career in private equity, becoming a senior partner at Apollo Global Management. His experience in private equity provides a strategic approach to his new role as commissioner.
Berg plans to divest his ownership stake in LAFC to focus on his commissioner duties. He emphasizes urgency, collaboration, and goal alignment as key attributes in his approach.
Vision for MLS
In 2020, Berg predicted MLS overtaking baseball and hockey to become the third most popular sport in the U.S., behind football and basketball. His vision includes improving competition, player development, club strength, and international success.
Berg aims to enhance the quality of the on-field game, emphasizing transfer revenues and media money as means to achieve better competition.
Challenges Ahead
MLS faces roster rule negotiations with the players’ union, whose contract expires Jan. 31, 2028. Simplifying regulations and increasing spending are priorities.
The league’s media rights deal with Apple TV, earning $250 million annually, is up for renegotiation. Berg insists on finding media partners to co-create future opportunities, using changes like World Cup ‘hydration breaks’ as potential strategies.
Promotion and Relegation
Regarding promotion and relegation, Berg opposes implementing Europe-style systems in MLS, citing financial risks. He believes protecting investments is crucial for league growth.