MLS Owner Vote on New Commissioner Set for August 3

Major League Soccer (MLS) owners are scheduled to vote on August 3 to determine the league’s next commissioner, according to multiple sources. The two finalists for the role are Larry Berg, co-owner of LAFC, and David Nathanson, a former Fox Sports executive and minority shareholder in the Seattle Sounders. The decision requires a two-thirds supermajority, per league rules.

The Candidates

Larry Berg is viewed as the frontrunner, with strong support from the board. As co-chair of the sporting and competition committee, he has played a central role in implementing the league’s “MLS 3.0” strategy, which includes a summer-spring calendar shift and competition reforms. David Nathanson, known for his media expertise during his tenure at Fox Sports—including securing FIFA World Cup rights—brings valuable broadcasting experience as the league prepares for its next media rights cycle.

Don Garber’s Transition

Current commissioner Don Garber, who has led the league since 1999, will remain in a transitional role through the end of his contract in 2027. He emphasized his support for succession planning, stating, “I’m incredibly supportive of succession and the transition,” during an interview with the Sports Business Journal.

League’s Strategic Shifts

The vote occurs amid significant changes to MLS operations, including a calendar realignment with European leagues and proposed roster rule adjustments. These reforms aim to enhance competitive balance and quality, though finalizing them hinges on negotiations with the MLS Players Association, which has a collective bargaining agreement through January 2028.

Regardless of the outcome, the new commissioner will need to divest their ownership stake in their respective MLS team, a practice seen in other leagues like MLB under former commissioner Bud Selig.