Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Larry Berg appointed MLS commissioner, launches fall-spring, $500M media rights

8/6/2026

48 10 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Larry Berg will become MLS commissioner on Jan 1 2027, succeeding Don Garber.
Berg says his priority is listening to owners, players, coaches, fans and partners, and improving on-field quality through roster investment and youth development.
MLS will shift to a fall-to-spring calendar with a sprint season in early 2027 and aims for $400-$500 million annual media-rights revenue, up from the $275 million Apple TV deal ending 2029.

History

Historical Context

The 1994 World Cup in the United States sparked a surge in soccer viewership, prompting ESPN and ABC to pay $20 million for the 1998 tournament and later allowing MLS to purchase the 2002-2006 English-language rights for $40–$50 million. Now commissioner Larry Berg, succeeding Don Garber, aims for $400-$500 million media deals and a fall-to-spring schedule to match European leagues and challenge the Premier League’s $2.5 billion annual rights.

1 of 2

Story summary

Larry Berg will become MLS commissioner on Jan 1 2027, succeeding Don Garber.
Berg says his priority is listening to owners, players, coaches, fans and partners, and improving on-field quality through roster investment and youth development.
MLS will shift to a fall-to-spring calendar with a sprint season in early 2027 and aims for $400-$500 million annual media-rights revenue, up from the $275 million Apple TV deal ending 2029.

1 / 2