Major League Soccer (MLS) is the top-tier professional men’s soccer league in the United States and Canada. Here’s a breakdown:
League Structure
Single-entity model: Unlike traditional sports leagues, MLS is owned by the league itself, not by individual team owners. This allows for more centralized control and financial stability.
Conferences: Divided into Eastern and Western Conferences for regular season and playoff purposes.
Expansion: The league has experienced significant growth since its inception in 1996, with new teams joining regularly.
Season Format
Regular season: Runs from early spring to early fall, with each team playing 34 games.
Playoffs: The top seven teams from each conference qualify for the playoffs, which culminate in the MLS Cup.
Key Features
Designated Player Rule: Allows teams to sign high-profile international players by exceeding salary cap restrictions. This has attracted top talent to the league.
Supporters’ culture: MLS is known for its passionate fanbases and dedicated supporters’ groups, creating a vibrant atmosphere at matches.
Growth: The league has experienced substantial growth in popularity, viewership, and player talent over the years.