League: FIFA World Cup Sport: Soccer Country: Global Category: Playoffs

MLS features record 44 players in upcoming 2026 World Cup

CBS Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 2, 2026, 6:03 PM

Last updated Jun 2, 2026

MLS features record 44 players in upcoming 2026 World Cup

Summary

As the 2026 World Cup approaches, a record 44 active MLS players are set to compete. The tournament begins on June 11, hosted by Mexico and South Africa. This represents a significant increase from 36 MLS players in the 2022 World Cup., several national teams, including Argentina and Colombia, boast MLS talent among their ranks. The presence of MLS players will showcase the league's growth and enhance recruitment efforts in the North American soccer.

Source Links

CBS Sports

Key Details

•Tournament kicks off on June 11, 2026.
•MLS players represent multiple countries, including South Africa and Argentina.
•103 players on World Cup rosters have MLS ties.
•USMNT has eight MLS representatives, tied with Canada.
•MLS players from Argentina, Croatia, and Uruguay could drive deep tournament runs.

Latest Updates

6:03 PMCBS Sports — MLS players at 2026 World Cup: League sets record with Lionel Messi, USMNT talent set to play big roles

What they're saying

"
A record 44 MLS players will compete in the 2026 World Cup, highlighting the league’s massive global growth since the tournament was last in North America
— CBS Sportsby Chuck Booth

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FIFA World Cup Soccer