News Summary
Charlotte is preparing to host the 2026 MLS All-Star Game at Bank of America Stadium, marking its first time as the host city. The event is set for next summer and will be broadcast globally. MLS Commissioner Don Garber has praised Charlotte as a burgeoning soccer city, evidenced by strong attendance at Charlotte FC matches. The event will include a week-long celebration with various soccer-related activities. Local leaders anticipate significant economic benefits, with the city showcasing its growth as a prominent venue for sports and entertainment.
Charlotte is set to make history as it prepares to host the 2026 MLS All-Star Game at Bank of America Stadium, marking a significant achievement for Charlotte FC. This will be the first time the club has ever hosted the All-Star Game, which is set to take place next summer. The announcement was made by Major League Soccer (MLS), highlighting Charlotte’s growth in the soccer community.
The 30th MLS All-Star matchup will be broadcast globally in over 100 countries and regions thanks to the MLS Season Pass on the Apple TV app. This means that fans from around the world will have the opportunity to watch the game live as Charlotte showcases its vibrant soccer culture.
MLS Commissioner Don Garber praised Charlotte for emerging as a “big-time soccer city,” emphasizing the city’s strong support for Charlotte FC. The club has consistently drawn packed crowds, with averages of 35,000 fans per game since its debut in 2022. Its inaugural home opener set a league record with 74,479 fans in attendance, establishing a solid foundation for future events.
In addition to hosting MLS events, Charlotte has welcomed major international soccer competitions, such as the FIFA Club World Cup and Copa América. Bank of America Stadium has a history of attracting large audiences, regularly hosting more than 50,000 fans for international matches. The stadium generates an annual economic impact of approximately $1.1 billion for the Charlotte Metropolitan Statistical Area, further solidifying its role as a key venue for sports and entertainment.
A week-long celebration of soccer and culture will accompany the All-Star Game, with activities designed for fans of all ages taking place at various locations around the city. Events planned during the All-Star Week include the MLS All-Star Skills Challenge presented by AT&T and the MLS NEXT All-Star Game presented by Allstate, promising a festive atmosphere leading up to the main event.
Local leaders have expressed pride in Charlotte’s selection to host this prestigious event, which is expected to bring significant economic benefits to the region. Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles acknowledged the anticipated economic boost and the spotlight it will bring to the local economy. Additionally, North Carolina Governor Josh Stein indicated that the state’s new Major Events Fund enhances North Carolina’s competitiveness for attracting top-tier events like the All-Star Game.
Since the acquisition of the stadium by Tepper Sports & Entertainment in 2018, Bank of America Stadium has undergone extensive transformations, transitioning from a primarily football-specific venue to a multi-sport hub capable of hosting a variety of events. The enhancements made to the stadium are indicative of Charlotte’s commitment to establishing itself as a premier destination for soccer and sports entertainment.
The specific date and opponent for the 2026 MLS All-Star Game will be announced in the coming months, generating excitement among fans and stakeholders alike. Charlotte FC’s continued progress and the city’s dedication to nurturing a passionate soccer community suggest that the upcoming All-Star Game will not only be a historical moment for the club but also a celebration of Charlotte’s growth on the global sports stage.
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