Major League Soccer (MLS) is the premier professional soccer league in the United States and Canada, sanctioned by the United States Soccer Federation. Founded in 1993 as part of the bid to host the 1994 FIFA World Cup, MLS began play in 1996 with ten teams. Over time, it has grown to include 29 teams—26 in the United States and 3 in Canada—since the 2023 season. MLS has evolved significantly from its early financial struggles, thanks in part to the development of soccer-specific stadiums, the Designated Player Rule, and lucrative national TV contracts. The league has become a key player in the global soccer landscape, attracting high-profile players such as David Beckham and Lionel Messi. With its headquarters in Midtown Manhattan, MLS continues to grow in popularity and influence, shaping the future of soccer in North America.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1993 |
| Inaugural Season | 1996 |
| Teams | 29 (26 in the US, 3 in Canada) |
| Headquarters | Midtown Manhattan, New York City |
| Current Champions | Los Angeles FC (2022) |
| Domestic Cup(s) | U.S. Open Cup |
| International Cup(s) | CONCACAF Champions League |
| Season | Champion | Runners-Up | Top Scorer | Goals | Manager of the Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | St. Louis City SC | LAFC | Hany Said | 23 | Jim Curtin |
| 2022 | LAFC | Philadelphia Union | Gareth Bale | 20 | Steve Cherundolo |
| 2021 | New England Revolution | Seattle Sounders | Adam Buksa | 16 | Bruce Arena |
| 2020 | Columbus Crew SC | Seattle Sounders | Gyasi Zardes | 12 | Caleb Porter |
| 2019 | Seattle Sounders FC | Toronto FC | Carlos Vela | 15 | Brian Schmetzer |
| 2018 | Atlanta United FC | Portland Timbers | Josef MartÃnez | 31 | Tata Martino |
| 2017 | Toronto FC | Seattle Sounders | Sebastian Giovinco | 16 | Greg Vanney |
| 2016 | Seattle Sounders FC | Toronto FC | Nicolás Lodeiro | 14 | Brian Schmetzer |
| 2015 | Portland Timbers | Columbus Crew SC | Fanendo Adi | 16 | Caleb Porter |
| 2014 | LA Galaxy | New England Revolution | Robbie Keane | 19 | Bruce Arena |
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