Larry Berg Named Next Commissioner of Major League Soccer

Los Angeles FC co-owner Larry Berg has been chosen as the new commissioner of Major League Soccer (MLS). The league’s owners recently voted for Berg, who will officially step into the role on January 1, 2027, after a transition period with outgoing commissioner Don Garber.

The Transition of Leadership

Berg succeeds Garber, who transformed MLS from a struggling 10-team league into a well-established entity. Under Garber’s leadership, the league developed 23 soccer-specific stadiums and youth academies for every team. Berg acknowledges this foundation and sees a bright future for MLS, saying at an introductory press conference, “The future of Major League Soccer has never been brighter.” He brings his experience as a player, fan, and owner to this new role.

Background and Achievements of Larry Berg

Berg is known for his co-ownership of Los Angeles FC, a team recognized for its success since its debut in 2018. Under Berg’s co-ownership, LAFC won several titles, including an MLS Cup and a U.S. Open Cup. Berg also serves as co-chair of the league’s Sporting and Competition Committee, where he helps oversee rule changes, such as the upcoming calendar switch.

Professional Journey

Berg grew up in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, and began playing soccer at age eight. He later played in high school against prominent figures like future Sporting KC head coach Peter Vermes. Berg studied economics and business at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School, then attended Harvard University. His professional background is in private equity, having worked as a senior partner at Apollo Global Management. Berg plans to divest his ownership stake in LAFC to take on his new role.

Berg believes his private equity experience will benefit him as commissioner, emphasizing a sense of urgency and alignment toward common goals.

Berg’s Ambitions for MLS

In 2020, Berg made a bold prediction, envisioning soccer and MLS overtaking baseball and hockey in popularity in the U.S. He reiterated his commitment to this vision, focusing on improving competition, player development, and club strength.

Berg’s primary focus is enhancing the on-field quality of the game. He believes that increasing transfer revenues and media funds will lead to better on-field performance, creating a positive cycle for the league.

Challenges Ahead

One major challenge involves MLS’s current roster rules and spending restrictions. Owners are eager for simplified regulations and increased spending opportunities, leading to potential negotiations with the MLS players’ union. The current contract lasts until January 31, 2028.

The league’s media rights deal is another significant challenge. MLS currently earns approximately $250 million annually from Apple TV, but Berg sees room for growth. He emphasizes finding media partners interested in co-creating the future and notes the importance of mutually beneficial changes.

Thoughts on Promotion and Relegation

When asked about implementing a promotion-relegation system similar to Europe’s leagues, Berg expressed skepticism. He cited financial risks for teams and indicated that it is not a priority. Berg emphasized that such a system would not align with the league’s current growth strategies.