Major League Soccer (MLS) is the top professional soccer league in the United States and Canada. Its creation marked a major turning point for the growth of soccer in North America.
1. Origins and Founding (1993–1995)- Background: After the U.S. was awarded the 1994 FIFA World Cup, FIFA required the creation of a top-tier professional soccer league in the country.
- Founded: MLS was officially established in 1993.
- First Season: The league's inaugural season kicked off in 1996 with 10 teams, including D.C. United, LA Galaxy, and New York/New Jersey MetroStars (now New York Red Bulls).
- Financial struggles: Poor attendance and low TV ratings made it hard for the league to stay profitable.
- Team contraction: In 2002, two teams (Tampa Bay Mutiny and Miami Fusion) were folded due to financial losses.
- Turning point: A committed group of investors, including Lamar Hunt and Philip Anschutz, kept the league alive during this period.
- Soccer-specific stadiums: New venues helped improve the fan experience and financial sustainability.
- International stars: The Designated Player Rule (introduced in 2007) allowed teams to sign marquee players like David Beckham, raising the league's global profile.
- Steady expansion: Teams were added in markets like Toronto (first Canadian club), Seattle, and Philadelphia.
- Rapid expansion: By the 2020s, MLS had grown to 29 teams, with more on the way, including San Diego (2025).
- Strong fan culture: Cities like Atlanta, Seattle, and Portland developed passionate fanbases and filled large stadiums regularly.
- Improved quality: Investments in youth academies, international scouting, and player development raised the level of play significantly.
- Global partnerships: The 2023 signing of Lionel Messi by Inter Miami drew worldwide attention and viewership.
- MLS is now one of the most prominent and fast-growing soccer leagues in the world.
- The league features a playoff system, Supporters' Shield, MLS Cup, and participation in continental tournaments like the CONCACAF Champions Cup.
- It continues to expand its digital reach, youth development programs, and international relevance.