Larry Berg to Succeed Don Garber as MLS Commissioner on Jan. 1, 2027

LAFC part owner Larry Berg will become the third commissioner in MLS history starting January 1, 2027, following a vote by league owners in New York City.

Larry Berg, a part owner of LAFC, will become the third commissioner in the history of Major League Soccer on January 1, 2027. The league announced the appointment on Monday, August 3, 2026, following a vote by league owners during a meeting held in New York City. Berg is set to replace Don Garber, who has held the position since 1999. Garber will remain in his current role through the end of 2026 before transitioning to the position of chairman when Berg assumes leadership at the start of 2027.

During Garber’s tenure, which began near the start of the 21st century, the league expanded from 10 clubs to its current roster of 30 teams across the United States and Canada. Berg’s appointment comes as the league prepares for a significant structural shift. Following a shortened "sprint season" scheduled for next year, MLS will pivot to a summer-to-fall season format for the 2027-28 campaign. Additionally, the new commissioner will be responsible for managing the conclusion of the league's media rights agreement with Apple TV, which is slated to end in 2029.

Ownership Divestment and LAFC Legacy

To maintain full impartiality while leading the 30-club circuit, Berg will divest his ownership interest in LAFC through an established transition process. Since debuting in 2018, the Los Angeles-based club has secured an MLS Cup title, two Supporters' Shields, and a U.S. Open Cup trophy. LAFC lead managing owner Bennett Rosenthal and owner Brandon Beck credited Berg with providing the strategic foresight behind BMO Stadium and fostering a championship-caliber culture within the organization.

Berg’s professional background includes experience in finance and private equity, which Jimmy Haslam, CEO of Haslam Sports Group and co-chair of the MLS Succession Committee, cited as a key factor in the selection. Haslam described Berg as uniquely qualified to guide the league through a significant period of growth and momentum. The selection process emphasized Berg's global perspective and his deep understanding of the league's internal operations.

Strategic Goals for the 2027 Era

Upon taking office, Berg aims to elevate the quality of competition and increase the development of world-class players. He expressed a commitment to deepening connections with supporters and strengthening the league's standing within the global game. His leadership will coincide with the implementation of the new 2027 format, marking a new chapter for the competition's structure.

Don Garber’s move to the chairman role ensures a degree of continuity as the league transitions between its second and third commissioners. The league's current 30-team footprint represents a 200% increase in size since Garber took over twenty-seven years prior to the scheduled 2026 handover. Berg will work alongside owners, players, partners, and league staff to execute the upcoming media and seasonal transitions defined in the league's long-term roadmap.