MLS appoints LAFC co-owner Berg as next commissioner

Major League Soccer (MLS) owners have selected Larry Berg, a co-owner of Los Angeles FC (LAFC), to become the league's next commissioner. Berg, who also has a background in private equity, is slated to succeed the long-serving Don Garber.

Berg has been part of LAFC's ownership since 2018, providing him with direct insight into the league's operations. Before assuming the commissioner role, he will divest his stake in the team. His career in finance includes an MBA from Harvard Business School and three decades of experience with the asset management firm Apollo Global Management.

Garber, 68, has held the position of commissioner for nearly three decades, starting in August 1999. He will transition to the role of chairman in 2027, while Berg officially takes over as commissioner on January 1, 2027. A succession committee, formed in 2025 and co-led by LAFC co-owner Bennett Rosenthal and Columbus Crew owner Jimmy Haslam, guided the search for Garber's successor, with consultant Korn Ferry assisting in the process.