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WHAT HAPPENED?
With 16 games still to play in the regular season, MLS surpassed its previous full-season record with 11,085,336 fans attending matches in 2024 – not including Leagues Cup games – the league announced Monday.
That eclipsed the mark of of 10,900,804 set in 2023. The league’s average attendance of 23,240 fans per game is up 5% from the end of the 2023 season. Decision Day 2024 is Oct. 19.
The New England Revolution (44,110), Atlanta United (43,428), Charlotte FC (38,259) and Toronto FC (30,217) drew MLS’ biggest crowds this past weekend, according to Sports Business Journal, helping to push the league beyond the 11 million mark.
With San Diego FC set to begin MLS play in 2025, the league will be aiming for another record next season.
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USA Today ImagesTHE BIGGER PICTURE
2024 is the third-straight season in which league-wide attendance has risen, but it’s the first time MLS reached the 11 million mark. With the league growing and expanding, on and off the pitch, it’s a sign that soccer fandom in the United States is on the rise, as well.
The 2024 summer transfer window included world-renown stars Olivier Giroud, France’s all-time leading scorer, and Marco Reus, Borussia Dortmund and Germany legend, joining MLS clubs. In addition to Lionel Messi at Inter Miami, the league’s attractive pull for European stars continues to grow as well.
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USA Today ImagesWHAT NEXT FOR MLS?
The final day of the regular season arrives on Oct. 19, but two more matches are set to be played before that. The Columbus Crew host the New England Revolution on Oct. 12, and the Vancouver Whitecaps host LAFC on Oct. 13.
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