Full Breakdown
Inter Miami Tops MLS Valuations Amid League Growth
2/11/2026, 6:47:10 AM
Record Valuation for Inter Miami
Inter Miami has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the most valuable team in Major League Soccer (MLS), with a valuation of $1.45 billion, according to a report by Sportico. This marks a 22% increase from the previous year and positions Inter Miami ahead of Los Angeles FC, which is valued at $1.4 billion. This shift in valuation comes on the heels of Inter Miami's first MLS Cup title, won in December 2022, and the high-profile arrival of Argentine superstar Lionel Messi in 2023. The top five teams in MLS now include LA Galaxy at $1.17 billion, Atlanta United at $1.14 billion, and New York City FC at $1.12 billion.
Overall Growth of MLS Franchise Values
The average franchise value across all 30 MLS teams has reached $767 million, reflecting a 39% increase since Sportico's initial valuations in 2021. Collectively, MLS franchises are now valued at approximately $23 billion. Despite this growth, MLS teams still lag behind franchises in other major sports leagues, such as the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL. For instance, the Dallas Cowboys lead all sports franchises with a valuation of $12.8 billion.
Disparities and Challenges Within the League
While the overall financial landscape of MLS appears robust, concerns have been raised regarding the widening gap between the league's wealthiest and less affluent teams. For example, Inter Miami's valuation is 3.4 times greater than that of CF Montreal, which is valued at $480 million. This disparity raises questions about the competitive balance within the league, especially as national television revenues remain lower than those in the NBA and NFL. MLS teams reportedly net only $5 million in revenue after production costs from their partnership with Apple, compared to NHL teams that average around $40 million.
Ownership Challenges
Despite rising valuations, some ownership groups are encountering difficulties in selling their franchises. The Vancouver Whitecaps and San Jose Earthquakes have faced challenges in attracting potential buyers. Axel Schuster, CEO of the Whitecaps, noted that despite significant interest—over 30 groups signing non-disclosure agreements to analyze the club's situation—none were willing to invest, citing concerns about the market and the club's setup.
Conclusion
As MLS prepares for its 2026 regular season, which kicks off on February 21 with LAFC hosting Inter Miami, the league's financial landscape continues to evolve. While Inter Miami's rise to the top of the valuation rankings highlights the potential for growth, the challenges faced by other franchises underscore the complexities of the league's economic environment.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Not one single one is interested in buying even 1% of this club, because all of them think that our setup here, the market and the situation we are in is not something where you can invest.” — Axel Schuster, CEO of Vancouver Whitecaps.
