Major League Soccer (MLS) has experienced exponential growth in recent decades, establishing itself as one of the most dynamic and attractive soccer leagues in the world. Since its founding in 1993, MLS has incorporated unique features that distinguish it from other international competitions. Below, we delve into some curious facts you might not know about this ever-evolving league.
MLS was founded in 1993 as part of the United States' commitment to FIFA to host the 1994 World Cup. This agreement aimed to establish a professional soccer league that would endure over time, unlike previous attempts such as the North American Soccer League (NASL), which ceased operations in 1984. The creation of MLS represented an effort to consolidate soccer in a country dominated by sports like baseball, basketball, and American football.
Since its inaugural season in 1996, MLS has undergone significant expansion. It started with 10 teams and, by the 2024 season, includes 29 clubs, with franchises in Canada. This expansion reflects the growing interest and investment in soccer in North America. Additionally, the league has announced the inclusion of San Diego FC for the 2025 season, which will bring the total number of teams to 30.
Unlike many European leagues, MLS is divided into two conferences: East and West. This structure, similar to that of the NBA and NFL, seeks to reduce extensive travel between teams and foster regional rivalries. Each conference has its own standings, and at the end of the regular season, the top teams from each conference advance to the playoffs to compete for the MLS Cup.
MLS adopts a playoff format to determine the league champion, a feature that sets it apart from many European leagues that crown the team with the most points at the end of the regular season. This system adds excitement and allows teams that may not have led the standings to compete for the title in a series of knockout matches.
MLS implements a salary cap to maintain competitiveness and financial stability among teams. However, in 2007, it introduced the "Designated Player Rule" (known as the "Beckham Rule"), allowing clubs to sign up to three players whose salaries do not fully count against the cap. This rule facilitated the arrival of international stars such as David Beckham, Thierry Henry, and, more recently, Lionel Messi, elevating the league’s global profile.
Inspired by other U.S. sports leagues, MLS organizes an annual SuperDraft where teams select college players and young prospects. This system promotes local talent development and offers players a direct pathway to professional soccer. Additionally, the league has invested in youth academies and development programs to nurture the next generation of soccer players.
The signing of Lionel Messi to Inter Miami in 2023 marked a milestone in MLS history. His arrival not only drew global attention to the league but also increased stadium attendance and television viewership. Messi led Inter Miami to win the Leagues Cup and set a new regular-season points record with 74 points, surpassing the previous record of 73. This achievement secured them the Supporters' Shield title and a spot in the Club World Cup.EL PAÍS
Before Messi, MLS had already attracted international figures like David Beckham, who joined LA Galaxy in 2007. His arrival not only raised the level of play but also boosted the league’s visibility and popularity. Beckham later became the owner of Inter Miami, demonstrating his long-term commitment to the growth of soccer in the United States.AS
In 2024, MLS set a new attendance record for the regular season, surpassing 11 million fans and breaking the previous record of 10,900,804 set last season. This milestone is partly attributed to the arrival of international superstars like Lionel Messi and the introduction of attractive ticket packages for fans.REUTERS
The New England Revolution set a record in 2021 by accumulating 73 points in the regular season, surpassing the previous mark of 72 points. However, this record was broken in 2024 by Inter Miami, which reached 74 points under Lionel Messi's leadership. In terms of players, Josef Martínez of Atlanta United set a record by scoring in 15 consecutive matches in 2019, showcasing the high level of competition in the league.
MLS has fostered intense regional rivalries that add excitement to the competition. Matches like "El Tráfico" between LA Galaxy and LAFC and the "Cascadia Cup" between Seattle Sounders, Portland Timbers, and Vancouver Whitecaps are examples of clashes that capture fans’ attention and reflect the passion for soccer in various regions of North America.
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