MLS: strategic agreement with US fund KKR to accelerate growth of MLS NEXT Pro

MLS and US fund KKR have made a strategic agreement and formed Hometown Soccer Holdings, "a new platform created to support the evolution of MLS NEXT Pro," Major League Soccer announced on 30/04/2026. The amount of KKR's investment was not disclosed.

"The partnership will serve as MLS NEXT Pro’s commercial engine, supporting stadium development in new communities, creating new club brands for MLS-affiliated teams, and enhancing the fan experience through high-energy matchday environments at fan-friendly venues with distinct local identities," MLS said.

Hometown Soccer Holdings will be led by Tom Glick (former Manchester City FC, New York City FC, Tepper Sports & Entertainment and Chelsea FC) as CEO, and former player Chris Klein (13 MLS seasons, former president of LA Galaxy) as president. Chris Klein is currently co-chair of the LA Host Committee for the 2026 World Cup.

Launched in 2022 by Major League Soccer, MLS NEXT Pro is a professional men's football league in the United States and Canada that "completes the pro player pathway" from MLS NEXT (a youth league for U13 to U19 teams…