Shaun Clark | ISI Photos | USSF | Getty Images
NEW YORK — Major League Soccer has named Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) co-owner Larry Berg as its next commissioner, according to a source familiar with the matter. Berg will assume executive leadership of the league next year, taking over from longtime commissioner Don Garber.
Garber, 68, who has helmed the league since 1999 and overseen its transformation from a struggling startup into a global multibillion-dollar property, will remain in an emeritus role through the conclusion of his contract at the end of 2027.
Key Takeaways & Leadership Transition
- Divestment Requirement: To assume the commissioner role, Berg will sell his ownership stake in LAFC, where he currently serves as co-owner. Prior to his involvement in professional soccer, Berg was a senior partner at Apollo Global Management.
- Garber’s Legacy: Under Garber’s 27-year tenure, MLS expanded rapidly in scale and market value. In CNBC’s Official Global Soccer Team Valuations 2026, MLS franchises claimed seven of the top 30 positions globally, led by Inter Miami at $1.6 billion.
- Upcoming Executive Priorities:
- Collective Bargaining Agreement: Berg will lead negotiations for a new labor agreement with the MLS Players Association before the current CBA expires in January 2028.
- Media Rights: He will steer the league’s next global broadcast deal following the conclusion of its exclusive partnership with Apple after the 2028–2029 season.