Major League Soccer has announced that it is experiencing a significant surge in attendance numbers for the 2024 season. With the league averaging 23,246 fans per game, there has been a 7% increase from the same time last year. This upward trend puts MLS on track to break the record for the highest average attendance in a season, which currently stands at 22,111 fans per game.
One of the main contributors to this boost in attendance is the presence of soccer superstar Lionel Messi with Inter Miami CF. The impact of Messi’s star power has been evident, with Inter Miami seeing a 26.6% increase in average home attendance compared to the previous year. Additionally, six out of seven teams with double-digit increases in attendance have hosted Inter Miami matches. This highlights the undeniable draw that a global icon like Messi has on fans across the league.
In 2024, 25 out of the 29 teams in MLS have shown an increase or maintained their attendance numbers compared to the previous year at the same time. This positive trend has resulted in nearly 6.5 million fans attending MLS matches so far this season, which is 725,000 more fans than the previous year at this point. Furthermore, the league has seen a record number of matches surpassing 40,000 in attendance, showcasing the overall growth and popularity of Major League Soccer.
With the current trajectory, Major League Soccer seems poised to shatter attendance records and continue to attract a broader fan base. The combination of star players like Messi, improved marketing strategies, and the overall growth of soccer in the US has contributed to this surge in attendance. Moving forward, it will be essential for MLS to capitalize on this momentum, engage with fans, and continue to provide an exciting and engaging experience for supporters both in-person and through other platforms. By leveraging these factors, Major League Soccer can solidify its position as a leading sports league in the US and further expand its reach globally.
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