Major League Soccer Commissioner Don Garber heralds the upcoming season as a watershed moment, driven by the convergence of the 2026 World Cup and the unprecedented impact of Lionel Messi.
"This is a massive year for MLS and a seminal moment for soccer, not just in the United States but throughout North America," Garber stated. The league will observe a seven-week hiatus for the World Cup, an event Garber deems "the biggest sporting event in the history of this country."
The commissioner aims to harness the tournament's global spotlight to build a lasting legacy for soccer in the U.S., believing the energy and drama will resonate beyond the competition itself.
Garber emphasized MLS's evolved relationship with the U.S. men's national team, noting that unlike in 1994, the league's growth is no longer solely dependent on the national team's success. With a diverse player base and international broadcasts, MLS now caters to a "new America."
Despite persistent skepticism regarding its standing compared to established leagues, Garber remains optimistic. He acknowledged the challenge of capturing the attention of fans initially drawn to European leagues or international competitions, a task he believes is crucial for local club engagement.
"Our best days, our best years, in my opinion, are still ahead," Garber asserted. He is confident that MLS will earn the trust and respect of soccer fans, mirroring the acclaim it has garnered from elite players, including "the best player in the history of the game" - Lionel Messi.
Messi's arrival at Inter Miami in 2023 has dramatically amplified MLS's global profile. Garber noted that "If you know football... you know Leo Messi, and you know now that he plays in MLS for Inter Miami."
As MLS enters its most significant year, it is strategically positioned to capitalize on a confluence of global attention. The league's ability to convert this momentum into sustained growth will be a key narrative in the coming months.