Major League Soccer (MLS) was founded on December 17, 1993, as part of the United States' successful bid to host the 1994 FIFA World Cup. The league commenced play in 1996 with ten original teams, aiming to establish a top-tier professional soccer league in the United States and Canada. Since its inception, MLS has expanded significantly, and as of 2025, it includes 30 teams spread across both countries.
Initially, MLS faced challenges in gaining a foothold in the competitive North American sports market. Early strategies included adopting a single-entity structure to ensure financial stability and introducing unique rules to differentiate the league. Over time, MLS teams have embraced traditional soccer cultures, enhancing their individual identities and creating a more authentic soccer experience. This evolution has led to increased fan engagement, higher attendance, and the development of state-of-the-art soccer-specific stadiums, solidifying MLS as a growing force in the global soccer community.
