Reports: LAFC co-owner Larry Berg selected as next MLS commissioner

Field Level Media|published: Mon 3rd August, 16:57 2026

Jul 11, 2022; Los Angeles, CA, USA; LAFC forward Gareth Bale (left) shakes hands with lead managing owner Larry Berg during introductory press conference at Banc of California Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Larry Berg, a co-owner of Los Angeles FC, was chosen as the next commissioner of Major League Soccer on Monday, Sportico and Sports Business Journal reported.

Berg will have to sell his stake in LAFC before transitioning into the commissioner role.

The MLS Board of Governors met Monday in New York to vote on the successor to Don Garber, with the two reported finalists being Berg and former Fox executive David Nathanson.

Garber, 68, has held the position since August 1999. Only NHL commissioner Gary Bettman has served longer among the major U.S. leagues, assuming office in February 1993.

Garber is under contract through the end of 2027. It's not yet known whether he will complete his tenure or step down sooner, as MLS will align its calendar with the major international soccer leagues and adopt a summer-to-spring wraparound format beginning in summer 2027.

Berg has held his ownership stake in LAFC since 2018, giving him inside knowledge of MLS operations. He comes from the world of finance, holding an MBA from Harvard Business School and 30 years of experience at Apollo Global Management.

--Field Level Media

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