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The MLS (Major League Soccer) was founded
World Cup USA 1994 Chairman/CEO Alan Rothenberg announces the formation of Major League Soccer. The league started with 10 teams, and now has expanded to over 30. This was innovative as it added a professional league in the United States and was able to bring new technology to the sport and expanded the opportunities for soccer in America.
https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Journal/Issues/2015/03/02/In-Depth/Timeline.aspx -
The League was granted permission to broadcast live
ESPN and ABC Sports announce the league’s first television rights deal without any players, coaches or teams in place. The three-year deal includes regular-season broadcasts on ESPN and ESPN2 and MLS cup on CBS. This is innovative as they were able to get broadcasting rights, which improves the league by letting anyone watch in the country. -
MLS get first sponsor
Budweiser was officially announced as the first sponsor of the MLS. This is innovative as it furthers both companies as they will promote off each other and will bring in money for both franchises. -
New MLS TV deal
ABC, ESPN and MLS reach a new six-year TV deal through the 2003 season. This is innovative as it gives more viewership across the nation bringing in more revenue. -
Fox Soccer and Soccer United Marketing $11 million Deal
Fox Soccer Channel and Soccer United Marketing agree to a five-year, $11 million deal to broadcast a Saturday night MLS Game of the Week, up to three MLS playoff games, and two men’s and two women’s U.S. national team games. This is innovative as it brings in a large amount of viewership to the league. -
MLS New Logo
MLS unveils its new logo as part of the “MLS Next” branding initiative. This is innovative as it brings a new image to the league, and is a good rebrand to gain more attention. -
VAR is announced into MLS
VAR (Visual Assistant Referee) is announced into MLS. This is innovative as its a new way to officiate and make better calls during the game. -
New Tracking Data
MLS announced a partnership with Second Spectrum for new advanced tracking data. This is innovative as it provides better stats for all the players and for everyone to see -
MLS Sport Tech Incubator
Major League Soccer is planning its own sports technology incubator, building on the launch of MLS Season Pass with Apple TV and a raft of recently announced partnerships designed to strengthen its technical and content capabilities. This is innovative as it provides more for the viewers who have apple tv and will improve engagement through fans. -
Ai.io partner for MLS Next oppritunities
Available in December 2023, ai.io will partner first with MLS NEXT as a no-cost, accessible way for aspiring soccer players to participate in virtual trials from their backyard or their neighborhood park – wherever they have a camera and a ball – and then have the opportunity to be scouted by MLS. This is innovative as its new technology and makes it easier for players to get noticed without having to travel.