MLS names Larry Berg as next commissioner from 2027

Major League Soccer’s board of governors has elected Larry Berg as the league’s next commissioner, with his term set to begin on January 1, 2027. Berg, a co-managing owner of Los Angeles FC and a senior partner at 26North, will take over from Don Garber, who has led MLS since 1999.

MLS said Berg must divest his ownership stake in Los Angeles FC before assuming the commissioner position, describing the step as necessary to support a clean transition and avoid potential conflicts of interest. As part of the leadership handover, Garber is set to move into the role of chairman when Berg’s appointment takes effect.

Private equity and ownership experience in the commissioner’s office Officials said Berg’s selection followed an extensive process that included presentations from multiple candidates. His professional background in private equity is expected to shape how the league approaches market expansion and capital investment, particularly given his current role as a senior adviser at 26North and his previous tenure as a partner at Apollo Global Management.

MLS framed the decision as a shift toward leadership with direct exposure to club ownership and operational decision-making. Berg’s experience includes both financial expertise and league governance work tied to competition matters, according to the league.

Berg’s MLS track record through LAFC and league committees Berg’s involvement with Los Angeles FC dates back to the club’s early formation. He first invested as a limited partner when LAFC launched in 2014, and later became a co-managing owner in 2016.

Beyond club ownership, he has held a league-facing role as co-chair of the MLS sporting and competition committee. MLS said that work has given him a detailed view of how the league runs on the sporting side, adding to his familiarity with operational priorities across the competition.

Leadership change during MLS growth and anniversary year

The incoming transition arrives as MLS continues positioning itself for further growth and marks its 30th anniversary. Berg will become the third commissioner in league history, a milestone that MLS described as aligned with its efforts to strengthen its competitive profile within an evolving domestic sports environment.

While MLS has not detailed specific policy changes linked to the appointment, the league said expanding its reach and elevating its competitive standing remain central objectives. The transition structure—Berg taking office in 2027 and Garber moving to chairman—sets a defined timeline for handing over responsibilities as those priorities continue.