Larry Berg, the incoming MLS commissioner, used his first public appearance since being named Don Garber’s successor to promise sweeping changes across the league. Speaking Tuesday at MLS headquarters in Manhattan, the 60 year old LAFC co managing owner said the league cannot simply coast on the foundation Garber built over 27 years. “Status quo is not an option,” Berg told reporters and league staff, adding that his focus will be helping MLS reach its full potential once he formally takes charge on January 1, 2027.
MLS Commissioner Larry Berg Prioritizes Roster Spending
Because MLS currently caps team payrolls at 6.4 million dollars, though exceptions push most 2026 rosters into the 12 to 21 million dollar range, owners have grown frustrated with the restrictions. Consequently, Berg named reforming the roster investment model his top priority, arguing that looser rules will let clubs build deeper squads suited to their markets. In turn, he said, better rosters should generate more transfer income and stronger media deals, creating what he called a flywheel effect for the league.
Media Rights Loom Large for MLS Commissioner Larry Berg
Although the league’s current Apple deal, worth 250 million dollars annually, runs through 2029, Berg said MLS will start shopping the next media contract within 12 to 18 months. He expressed hope that broadcast revenue could eventually double. Meanwhile, he ruled out adopting promotion and relegation, saying the model would undermine stadium construction and roster investment across the league.
Momentum Following the World Cup
Additionally, Berg pointed to rising valuations, since the average MLS franchise is now worth 767 million dollars, up 39 percent since 2021, and sponsorship revenue reached 716 million dollars last year, an 8 percent increase year over year. As a result, he plans to begin his tenure with a listening tour of owners, commercial partners and key stakeholders, aiming to convert post World Cup momentum into lasting growth. Ultimately, Berg made clear that building on Garber’s legacy will require fresh decisions rather than simply maintaining what already exists.
