As the 2026 World Cup approaches, Major League Soccer (MLS) will have a record presence with 44 players participating, marking a significant increase from previous tournaments. Leading this contingent is Lionel Messi, showcasing the league's developing global stature, despite still being overshadowed by top leagues like the Premier League and Bundesliga. The World Cup's expansion to 48 teams and the U.S. and Canadian qualifications have further bolstered MLS representation, although many players come from lower-ranked FIFA nations. The league faces challenges in attracting prime talent from the top countries and needs strategic changes to correspond with the European soccer calendar to maximize growth opportunities.

By the Numbers
  • MLS will send 44 players to the 2026 World Cup, up from 32 in 2022.
  • The league features players from 13 countries ranked 40th or lower by FIFA.
State of Play
  • MLS continues to be eclipsed in popularity and success by Liga MX, with only one MLS club winning the Concacaf Champions Cup in two decades.
  • Fan engagement and viewership for MLS remain strong, bolstered by the accessibility of games, including those featuring stars like Messi.
What's Next

MLS aims to leverage the World Cup's visibility to enhance fan engagement and increase its profile. The league's resumption of play during the World Cup semifinals offers an opportunity to attract viewers, especially with marquee players on display.

Bottom Line

MLS must capitalize on its World Cup representation and the star power of players like Messi and Son to gain traction and appeal among soccer fans. Strategic adjustments to align with global soccer rhythms will be crucial for long-term growth and exposure in the sport.