Lionel Messi brings Major League Soccer into the spotlight this weekend with his fourth season at Inter Miami, where he faces off against the league’s rising star Son Heung-min. The upcoming 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico promises to boost MLS’s global appeal.
This year marks a watershed moment for Major League Soccer as it splits its season into two parts due to the World Cup’s impact from June through July. Five stadiums across the US will stage World Cup matches, while many more serve as training facilities and fan zones. Several key MLS players are expected to participate in this summer’s tournament, including Son Heung-min and potentially Messi himself.
The league’s strategic decision to open with a blockbuster match between Inter Miami and Los Angeles FC at Memorial Coliseum—described by Commissioner Don Garber as the “largest opening weekend crowd in league history”—underlines its determination to capture widespread attention. The World Cup’s presence will generate interest, but MLS anticipates this season’s bifurcation to be even more lucrative through targeted marketing efforts.
MLS has already seen substantial growth with stars like Messi and Son, who have brought thousands of fans from their home countries. Other high-profile arrivals include James Rodriguez at Minnesota United and German Berterame at Inter Miami, co-owned by David Beckham. MLS players also continue to attract attention outside the league, such as Timo Werner joining San Jose Earthquakes after stints in Europe.
These moves have elevated MLS’s profile significantly but come with challenges. The league is now directly competing with NFL, NBA, and NHL for viewership during crucial seasons. However, Garber remains bullish on the potential to align MLS more closely with top European leagues starting July 2027, a move that could facilitate cross-border transfers and avoid scheduling conflicts.
The future of MLS thus hangs in the balance between attracting global stars and maintaining competitive integrity amidst increased competition from American professional sports leagues.