Major League Soccer eyes growth after World Cup exposure
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 21, 2026, 6:57 AM
Last updated Jul 21, 2026
Major League Soccer (MLS) is poised to build on the visibility gained from the 2026 World Cup, featuring 45 MLS players, including Lionel Messi. An advertising campaign, starring top players, encourages new fans to engage with the league, which is offering free tickets to promote attendance. The success of the World Cup has sparked excitement around MLS, highlighting its transformation from a 10-team league at its inception in 1996 to a robust 30-club competition with dedicated stadiums. MLS aims to establish itself among elite leagues globally, with plans to align its season more closely with European schedules by 2027 and enhance youth development initiatives.
- •MLS features 45 players at the 2026 World Cup, including Messi.
- •The league offers free tickets to attract new fans this season.
- •MLS has expanded from 10 teams in 1996 to 30 currently.
- •Plans for a summer-to-spring season kickoff in 2027.
- •Youth academies run by all MLS teams support player development.
- 6:57 AMYahoo Sports — Why World Cup can be game-changer for ambitious MLS
- 6:55 AMBBC Sport — Why World Cup can be game-changer for ambitious MLS
"Can the success of the 2026 World Cup help MLS become one of the world's elite leagues?
"Can the success of the 2026 World Cup help MLS become one of the world's elite leagues?
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJul 21, 2026, 6:57 AMWhy World Cup can be game-changer for ambitious MLS
Can the success of the 2026 World Cup help MLS become one of the world's elite leagues?
- BBC SportJul 21, 2026, 6:55 AMWhy World Cup can be game-changer for ambitious MLS
Can the success of the 2026 World Cup help MLS become one of the world's elite leagues?
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