MLS Succession Planning Begins as Owners Form Committee

MLS succession planning has officially commenced, as league owners have established a specialized committee to chart the course for Commissioner Don Garber’s eventual replacement. This significant step, reported by the Sports Business Journal, signals the start of a new era for Major League Soccer as it navigates upcoming leadership transitions and prepares for continued growth.

MLS Succession Planning: Committee Takes Shape in Palm Beach

Last Wednesday in Palm Beach, Florida, a newly established succession committee held its inaugural closed-door meeting ahead of the MLS Board of Governors assembly. Co-chaired by LAFC’s Bennett Rosenthal and Columbus Crew’s Jimmy Haslam, the committee is charged with overseeing the strategy for senior leadership transitions, including the search for Garber’s successor. Additional members include Jonathan Kraft (New England Revolution), Oliver Mintzlaff (New York Red Bulls), and John Ingram (Nashville SC). Notably, Don Garber himself was present, underlining his collaborative role in shaping the league’s future.

Timing of Succession Planning and MLS Calendar Shift

The formation of the MLS succession planning committee comes at a pivotal moment. The league recently approved a switch to a summer-to-spring calendar, aligning with top European competitions. This shift creates a unique challenge, as Garber’s current contract is set to expire at the end of the 2027 season—a date that now falls midway through the 2027-28 campaign under the new calendar. MLS has yet to confirm if Garber’s contract will be adjusted to align with these changes, and the commissioner has not publicly stated whether he will seek an extension.

Leadership Changes Intensify the Focus on MLS Succession Planning

This strategic move toward MLS succession planning is further contextualized by the recent announcement that Deputy Commissioner Gary Stevenson will retire after the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The succession committee’s first meeting came just a day after Stevenson’s announcement, adding urgency to the league’s broader evaluation of its organizational structure.

Strategic Review Underpins MLS Succession Planning

According to league spokesperson Dan Courtemanche, the MLS is currently engaged in an extensive, league-wide strategic planning process led by Garber, the new committee, and an external consulting firm. This review, which began in late summer 2025, aims to strengthen the league’s organizational model and ensure readiness for future opportunities and challenges. Courtemanche emphasized that, consistent with practices in high-performance organizations, this effort encompasses comprehensive succession planning for senior leadership and a holistic review of operational effectiveness across league offices.

Don Garber’s Legacy and the Path Forward

Now approaching his 27th year as commissioner, Don Garber has played an instrumental role in MLS’s transformation—from a fledgling league in financial distress to a formidable organization with 30 teams across the United States and Canada. Under his stewardship, MLS has expanded its reach, attracted marquee players, and secured lucrative broadcast deals. The formation of this succession committee marks a forward-thinking approach, ensuring the league’s stability and continuity as it prepares for the coming decades.

What’s Next for MLS Succession Planning?

The committee’s work is just beginning, and no timeline has been announced for identifying Garber’s replacement. However, the inclusion of key figures from across the league indicates a broad, inclusive approach to MLS succession planning, designed to preserve the league’s vision and momentum through any transition. For fans and stakeholders, these developments underscore a commitment to long-term sustainability and growth. Those interested in ongoing updates can visit our homepage for more news.

Opinion: A Timely and Necessary Step for MLS

The move to formalize MLS succession planning is both timely and prudent. As the league continues its rapid evolution—embracing a European-aligned calendar and expanding its footprint—strong, proactive leadership transitions are essential. Garber’s legacy is undeniable, but by planning ahead, MLS is positioning itself to thrive in a highly competitive global sports landscape.