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Don Garber agrees with Landon Donovan on MLS streaming maturity

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 12, 2026, 2:00 PM

Last updated Jun 12, 2026

Don Garber agrees with Landon Donovan on MLS streaming maturity

Summary

MLS commissioner Don Garber addressed Landon Donovan's assertion that Major League Soccer is 'not mature enough yet' to fully transition from linear television to streaming services. Garber concurred, stating the league is 'too early' in its streaming journey but remains optimistic about future digital distribution. Following a recent deal with Apple, Garber noted that MLS has seen a 62% increase in streaming viewership this season. He acknowledged the uncertainty of media rights options when they are next available after the 2028-29 season and emphasized the importance of digital exposure.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Garber agrees with Donovan on the league's maturity regarding streaming.
•MLS has experienced a 62% increase in streaming viewership this season.
•The league's strategy shifted from a paid subscription model to a standard Apple TV subscription.
•Garber highlighted the unpredictability in the media rights market for 2028-29.
•MLS still broadcasts a 34-game package on Fox Sports each season.

Latest Updates

2:00 PMYahoo Sports — Don Garber responds to Landon Donovan’s criticism that MLS ‘not mature enough’ to abandon linear TV

What they're saying

"
Earlier this month, American soccer superstar and Fox Sports broadcaster Landon Donovan claimed MLS was “not mature enough yet” to abandon linear television for a streaming-exclusive broadcast deal, like the one the league began with Apple in 2023. Turns out, MLS commissioner Don Garber would agree. Appearing in an interview with Alex Sherman of CNBC…
— Yahoo Sports

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