Major League Soccer (MLS) has experienced significant growth since its inception in 1996, expanding from 10 teams to 29 teams in 2023. With increasing popularity, the league has shown no signs of slowing down, continually exploring new markets for expansion. As MLS looks to the future, several states stand out as potential candidates for new teams due to their growing soccer culture, demographic trends, and economic viability. New states that get MLS teams become sports hot spots, often seeing tourism growth, sports betting growth, and an increase in local business and city revenue.
Here are some states that could be next in line to get an MLS team.
Mississippi
Mississippi, particularly the Jackson metropolitan area, offers a unique opportunity for MLS expansion. While not traditionally seen as a soccer powerhouse, Mississippi has a growing soccer culture. The state s demographic shifts and increasing interest in diverse sports make it a potential candidate for an MLS team.
A new MLS franchise in Mississippi would significantly increase fan engagement, fostering a strong soccer community. The influx of fans for home games would boost tourism, benefiting local businesses and the hospitality industry. Mississippi s burgeoning sports betting market could also see growth, with fans placing bets on their MLS team both in person at betting locations and online. According to Vlad G from Sports Talk Philly, sports betting was legalized in 2018 in the state. While state-regulated options allow bettors to wager on the NFL, NBA, NCAA, MLB, and NHL, some bettors visit offshore sites for more unique betting markets. The are often evaluated for features like betting markets offered, payment methods offered, and bonuses. These are important factors to consider when betting on sports in Mississippi, or any other state.
North Carolina
North Carolina has long been a hotbed for soccer, with a strong soccer culture and successful collegiate programs. The state is home to the and the Charlotte Independence, both competing in lower divisions but drawing substantial support. The state s vibrant soccer scene is bolstered by the success of the North Carolina Courage, a leading team in the National Women s Soccer League (NWSL). With Charlotte FC joining MLS in 2022, the state s soccer market has proven its potential.
Adding another MLS team, potentially in the Raleigh-Durham area, would significantly boost fan engagement, providing local fans with more opportunities to attend matches and support their team. An MLS team would also attract tourism dollars, as fans travel to attend games, filling hotels and restaurants. Additionally, the presence of a professional soccer team could spur interest in sports betting, both in person and online, contributing to the state s economy.
New Mexico
Albuquerque, New Mexico, has emerged as a surprising yet promising candidate for MLS expansion. New Mexico United, the state s USL Championship team, has , with strong attendance figures and a dedicated fan base. The state s unique cultural identity and growing interest in soccer make it an intriguing option for MLS.
An MLS team in Albuquerque would significantly boost local fan engagement, providing a focal point for the state s soccer enthusiasts. The presence of an MLS team would attract tourists, increasing spending on accommodations, dining, and local attractions. Additionally, New Mexico s sports betting market could see a surge in activity, with fans eager to bet on their home team both in person and online. Because only tribal casinos in New Mexico can currently offer sports betting, if an MLS team does call New Mexico home in the future, it’s likely this state will see an uptick in bettors visiting to place their wagers.
Conclusion
As Major League Soccer continues to expand, several states stand out as potential candidates for new teams. By carefully considering these markets, MLS can continue its growth trajectory, bringing professional soccer to new audiences and further solidifying its status as a premier soccer league in North America.
