Succession process for Major League Soccer commissioner
The search for a new commissioner for Major League Soccer has reportedly narrowed to two individuals following the withdrawal of one candidate. Initially, three finalists had emerged to potentially replace current commissioner Don Garber. These candidates were LAFC co-owner Larry Berg, former Fox executive David Nathanson, and San Francisco 49ers and Leeds United executive Paraag Marathe.
However, sources indicated that Marathe removed himself from consideration, leaving Berg and Nathanson as the primary candidates. It is noted that other candidates could still be recommended. The process has been underway since last November, with a succession committee formed by MLS owners, working with The Miles Group and Korn Ferry to develop a plan and narrow down candidates.
Don Garber, who has served as commissioner since 1999, has a contract that extends through the end of 2027. Owners view an early transition as crucial, aligning with a significant period of change for the league. Garber has expressed support for the succession process, stating his intention to remain in his role until his contract concludes, but also acknowledging the possibility of a new commissioner being named before then to facilitate a smooth handover.
Key candidates and their backgrounds
Both remaining candidates bring distinct experience to the role. Larry Berg, co-managing owner of LAFC, has a background in private equity. He was a limited partner in LAFC in 2014 and later led an internal buyout with other investors in 2016. Since its debut in 2018, LAFC has achieved success, including an MLS Cup, a U.S. Open Cup, and two Supporters’ Shields. Berg is also an active member of the board and co-chairs the sporting and competition committee, which addresses significant sporting matters like roster rules and competition formats.
David Nathanson, a former Fox executive, oversaw the network’s successful acquisition of World Cup rights for 2018, 2022, and 2026. He holds a minority ownership stake in the Seattle Sounders and serves as a director for the U.S. Soccer Foundation. His extensive media background is seen as a significant asset, particularly as the league anticipates negotiating new media deals. Media rights are a crucial component of sports league revenue, and MLS aims to strengthen its position in both the domestic American sports market and the global football landscape.
The league’s current agreement with Apple is set to conclude earlier than initially expected, in 2029, following renegotiated terms last year. This makes media rights negotiations a vital consideration in the selection of the next commissioner.
Upcoming decisions and league changes
MLS owners are expected to hold a vote in early August to select Garber’s replacement. A board of governors meeting is scheduled around the MLS All-Star Game in Charlotte on July 29, with a vote anticipated to occur after this meeting. Owners are expected to attend in person to ratify the final decision.
The incoming commissioner will face immediate tasks, including negotiating a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) with the MLS Players Association, as the current deal expires in January 2028. This negotiation comes at a time when owners have already initiated substantial changes to the league’s operations. Last year, owners voted to shift the league calendar to a summer-to-spring schedule starting in 2027, aligning MLS more closely with global transfer windows. The board also approved modifications to the competition structure, affecting both the regular season and postseason. Additionally, MLS owners and executives are exploring significant adjustments to roster rules and regulations, particularly concerning how much teams can spend on their senior rosters, which will likely be linked to the new CBA.
Source: nytimes.com
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