Larry Berg to Become New MLS Commissioner

For the first time in 27 years, Major League Soccer has a new commissioner. The league has named Larry Berg to the top role, succeeding longtime leader Don Garber.

Berg is no stranger to the league, serving as co-managing owner of Los Angeles Football Club and co-chair of Major League Soccer’s Sporting and Competition Committee. The announcement came after a comprehensive succession planning process led by the MLS Board of Governors, with Korn Ferry, CAA and The Miles Group serving as advisors in the search.

Berg will assume the new role on January 1, 2027.

Garber, who has been commissioner since 1999, oversaw tremendous growth in the league in terms of clubs, venues and revenue.

“I’m honored to lead Major League Soccer into its next era,” said Berg. “Thanks to the vision and commitment of so many people, Major League Soccer has achieved tremendous success, but I believe our greatest opportunities are still ahead. 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. Together with our owners, clubs, players, partners, supporters, and league staff, I could not be more excited for what comes next.”

Broad Soccer Experience

Beyond MLS, Berg has also held ownership interests in Serie A club AS Roma and Swansea City AFC in Wales, providing an international perspective going into the new role. The appointment comes as MLS seeks to draft off the interest and momentum of the FIFA World Cup 2026. MLS has several big initiatives ahead, including a new competition calendar in 2027, the evolution of its roster model, plans to open more new soccer stadiums, new media rights discussions, and a new collective bargaining agreement with players.

“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. “Throughout our process it became clear that Larry is uniquely qualified to lead MLS through one of the most significant periods in its history. His deep understanding of our league, lifelong connection to the game, global perspective, and proven leadership make him the right person to build on MLS’ momentum and guide the league into its next era of growth.”

Berg will divest his ownership interest in LAFC through the league’s established transition process.

“Having worked closely with Larry over the past decade, I’ve seen firsthand the qualities that make him an exceptional leader, and I have complete confidence he is the right person to serve as Major League Soccer’s next commissioner,” said Garber. “His integrity, judgment, collaborative leadership, and unwavering commitment to building LAFC and the league have made him an invaluable partner. I look forward to working alongside Larry during this transition and supporting him as he leads MLS into its next chapter.”

Under Garber’s watch, MLS has grown to 30 clubs from 10, attracted new owners, overseen the development of 26 soccer stadiums, and helped transform the United States and Canada into prominent soccer nations.