Major League Soccer is set for a significant leadership transition as Larry Berg has been named the incoming commissioner. Berg is slated to take over the role next year, succeeding Don Garber, who has served as the league’s commissioner since 1999. Garber is expected to remain with the organization in an emeritus capacity until his contract concludes at the end of 2027.

Berg, a former senior partner at Apollo Global Management, currently serves as a co-owner of the Los Angeles Football Club. To avoid conflicts of interest, he will be required to divest his ownership stake in the club before officially assuming the commissioner position. His appointment marks a new chapter for the league, which has seen exponential growth and financial valuation increases under Garber’s long-standing tenure.

Upon stepping into the role, Berg will immediately face several high-stakes responsibilities. Among his primary objectives will be the negotiation of a new collective bargaining agreement with the league’s players, as the current deal is set to expire in January 2028. Additionally, he will be tasked with navigating the league’s future media rights strategy, with the current partnership with Apple scheduled to conclude following the 2028-2029 season.

Key Takeaways

• Larry Berg will succeed Don Garber as the commissioner of Major League Soccer next year.
• Berg must sell his ownership stake in the Los Angeles Football Club to comply with league regulations.
• The incoming commissioner will lead critical negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement and future media rights deals.

Editor’s Analysis & Impact

The transition from Don Garber to Larry Berg represents a pivotal moment for Major League Soccer. Garber’s tenure is defined by the league’s evolution from a nascent startup into a global commercial powerhouse, evidenced by the high valuations of franchises like Inter Miami. Berg’s background in private equity at Apollo Global Management suggests that the league will continue to prioritize aggressive financial growth and sophisticated investment strategies. The immediate challenges—specifically the upcoming collective bargaining agreement and the renewal of media rights—will test Berg’s ability to balance player relations with the league’s commercial ambitions. As the sports media landscape shifts toward digital-first distribution, Berg’s approach to the post-Apple era will be a critical indicator of the league’s long-term sustainability and its ability to compete with established international soccer leagues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When will Larry Berg officially take over as commissioner?
A: Larry Berg is scheduled to take over the role of commissioner next year, while Don Garber will remain in an emeritus role until the end of 2027.

Q: What happens to Larry Berg's stake in the Los Angeles Football Club?
A: To avoid a conflict of interest, Berg is required to sell his ownership stake in the Los Angeles Football Club before he begins his tenure as commissioner.