Outgoing MLS Commissioner Don Garber praised the league’s partnership with Apple at Front Office Sports’ Tuned In conference. Still, he believes MLS has yet to fully bring its in-stadium energy to viewers at home.
What We Know: Garber has led MLS since August 1999, and the league grew from 12 to 30 clubs under his watch. He steps down at the end of 2026, and LAFC co-owner Larry Berg takes over January 1. Meanwhile, MLS and Apple revised their deal last year, moving its end date from 2032 to mid-2029. Additionally, every MLS match now streams within a standard Apple TV subscription.
What They Said: (All quotes via Front Office Sports):
MLS Commissioner Don Garber feels the MLS can do more to bring the in stadium experience to fans at home: “Now with technology, interactivities, and where streaming is going with their ability to create interaction. To have side by sides, look-ins, and technology that allows you at times to feel. To have Apple vision to be able to see things like you could see it in the stadium. I’m confident that we’ll be able to translate the in-stadium passion and experience to something that will come through to a viewer and can be the MLS point of difference. I don’t think we focused on that enough. I really believe that it is our hidden jewel, and I look forward to seeing how it comes to life.”
MLS Commissioner Don Garber on the MLS media relationship with Apple: “I love the relationship. I love their technology, how they treat our games. I love the fact that I was in London and Paris, and you’re able to just look as if you’re in your living room in Brooklyn. Whether that’s the future for MLS or it’s a combination, we’ll see. It’s a big task for the new commissioner.”
MLS Commissioner Don Garber believes sports media revenues will only continue to grow: “I think the future of global media is just at its infancy. In our new phase from radio to over-the-air television to broadcast network television to cable to satellite. We’re in a whole new world, and it’s a good time to be in the live sports business. It’s non-disruptible. It’s interactive. I think we’re going to only see more and more. Any regret I have is that I can’t be sitting at that table and getting a pile of new revenue from Major League Soccer because I’d get it.”
What Remains Unclear: Garber left open whether Apple remains MLS’s sole streaming home or part of a broader mix as their rights deal ends in 2029. Instead, he called that decision “a big task for the new commissioner.” Neither side has announced an extension, so FOX’s role also remains an open question.
What It Means: For broadcasters, Garber’s comments signal that interactivity will drive MLS’s next media pitch. He pointed to side-by-sides, look-ins, and Apple Vision as tools to recreate the stadium feel. Ultimately, Berg will inherit both a growing media market and a deadline. Because the Apple deal now ends in mid-2029, MLS returns to market years ahead of schedule.
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