MLS and KKR Form “Hometown Soccer Holdings” to Scale MLS NEXT Pro

Major League Soccer (MLS) and global investment firm KKR have announced a strategic partnership to accelerate the growth of MLS NEXT Pro, the league’s professional developmental circuit.

The collaboration has resulted in the formation of Hometown Soccer Holdings (HSH), a new platform designed to serve as the league’s commercial engine, focusing on stadium development, club branding, and fan experience.

MLS NEXT Pro aims to expand beyond its current footprint of 30 clubs into new, independent markets with purpose-built infrastructure.

Enhancing the Professional Pathway

Noting that the KKR partnership is timed to capitalise on the “special year” that 2026 represents for North American soccer, president of MLS NEXT Pro, Ali Curtis, said: “This investment strengthens our ability to provide more opportunities for players [and] expand into new markets.”

“It prepares the next generation of talent for success in MLS and beyond,” Curtis said.

Since its 2022 inception, MLS NEXT Pro has become a vital component of the North American soccer pyramid. To date, 255 players have successfully transitioned from the league to first-team MLS contracts.

Strategic Leadership and Infrastructure

HSH will be led by two of the most experienced executives in global football:

• Tom Glick (CEO): Former chief commercial and operating officer of Manchester City FC and president of Chelsea FC and Charlotte FC.

• Chris Klein (President): Former president of the LA Galaxy and a 13-season MLS veteran who currently co-chairs the LA Host Committee for the 2026 World Cup.

The platform’s primary mandate is the development of soccer-specific stadiums that serve as “long-term anchors” for their communities.

This “hometown” approach focuses on creating distinct local identities for clubs, particularly for the emerging independent teams such as Forest City Cleveland, Jacksonville Armada FC, and AC Grand Rapids, all set to join the league in the coming years.

Don’t miss out on the latest in sports business – Subscribe today to the free Ministry of Sport newsletter and stay ahead of the game. For even more exclusive insights, event tickets, professional development and networking events, become a MoS Member today!.