Major League Soccer (MLS) was founded in 1993 as a key part of the United States’ successful bid to host the 1994 FIFA World Cup. Although the league was officially established that year, its inaugural season did not begin until 1996, when it launched with ten original teams as the premier professional men’s soccer league in the United States and Canada.
MLS was officially founded in 1993, but its inaugural season didn’t kick off until three years later, in 1996, with ten original teams.
Founding Tied to the 1994 World Cup
The creation of MLS coincided with the 1994 World Cup as part of a strategic initiative to elevate the sport’s profile domestically. Initially, the league faced challenges gaining widespread popularity in a sports market with established favorites like the NFL, NBA and MLB. The origin of organized soccer-style games in America actually dates back to the early 1800s, but MLS stands as the most recent national top-tier league formed for professional men’s soccer.
Growth Into North America’s Top League
Since its inception, MLS has grown substantially, expanding its number of teams and increasing its presence across North America. The league has played an influential role in promoting soccer in the region and shaping its professional landscape. Today, MLS represents the culmination of decades of effort to establish the sport at the highest level in North America, a growth that continues with expansion franchises and rising investment across the league.
