Major League Soccer (MLS) is making waves on the global stage, with seven of its teams breaking into the top 30 of CNBC’s 2026 soccer franchise valuations. This marks a significant achievement for the league, which has been steadily growing in popularity and financial strength.

Inter Miami Leads MLS

Inter Miami, spearheaded by the legendary Lionel Messi, leads the MLS entries at number 14, valued at $1.6 billion. The team’s recent 60% growth is attributed to their new stadium and Messi’s immense draw, both in terms of ticket sales and overall revenue. Michael Ozanian, a senior sports reporter at CNBC, highlighted Messi’s unique contract, which includes stock options, as a key factor in the team’s financial success.

Other MLS Teams in the Rankings

Following Inter Miami, New York City FC ranks at number 15 with a valuation of $1.55 billion. Los Angeles FC and LA Galaxy are also in the top 20, valued at $1.3 billion and $1.2 billion, respectively. Atlanta United, Austin FC, and Columbus Crew complete the list of MLS teams in the top 30, showcasing the league’s growing influence and financial viability.

Comparison with European Giants

While MLS teams are making impressive strides, European clubs continue to dominate the top 10. Real Madrid and Barcelona lead the pack, with valuations of $7.5 billion and $6.4 billion, respectively. The Premier League is well-represented with six teams in the top 10, including Manchester United, Liverpool, and Manchester City.

Despite the disparity in revenue compared to European teams, the inclusion of MLS teams in the top 30 highlights the league’s potential and the increasing interest in soccer across the United States.

Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.