Reports: MLS down to 3 finalists to succeed Don Garber

Reports: MLS down to 3 finalists to succeed Don Garber reiterates that Major League Soccer has shortlisted three candidates to replace commissioner Don Garber, according to multiple outlets. The three are Los Angeles FC co-owner Larry Berg, 49ers Enterprises president Paraag Marathe, and David Nathanson, a former Fox executive. MLS said in a statement to Sportico that its Board of Governors is engaged in comprehensive succession planning, with an ongoing effort led by a succession committee working with Garber and the board. Garber, 68, has served since August 1999 and is contracted through the end of the 2027 season, though calendar changes tied to the international schedule could affect the end date. MLS formed a succession committee in 2025, led by LAFC co-owner Bennett Rosenthal and Columbus Crew owner Jimmy Haslam, with consultant Korn Ferry guiding the search. The report notes each finalist’s different strengths, including Berg’s LAFC operations experience, Marathe’s football investment and leadership background, and Nathanson’s media rights experience for the 2018, 2022 and 2026 World Cups.