Charlotte FC to Host 2026 MLS All-Star Game

News Summary

Charlotte FC has been selected to host the 2026 MLS All-Star Game at Bank of America Stadium, marking a significant milestone for the club and the city. This event will attract global attention and showcases Charlotte’s emerging status as a soccer destination. With an estimated $1.1 billion economic impact, the All-Star Week promises community engagement and celebrations for fans of all ages, further solidifying the region’s commitment to soccer and major sporting events.

Charlotte is set to make history as Major League Soccer (MLS) officially announces that Charlotte FC will host the 2026 MLS All-Star Game. This momentous event highlights the growing prominence of Charlotte FC and the city as a significant player in the world of soccer.

The 30th MLS All-Star matchup is scheduled for next summer at Bank of America Stadium, which is expected to attract fans from around the globe. The game will be broadcast in more than 100 countries and regions via the MLS Season Pass on the Apple TV app, marking a major milestone for both the club and the city.

Charlotte FC’s Growth and Impact

Charlotte FC was founded in 2019 and made a striking entry into the MLS in 2022, achieving league-record attendance during its inaugural home opener with 74,479 fans in the stands. Since joining the league, the club has been a crucial factor in establishing Charlotte as a premier soccer destination in North America, boasting world-class facilities and a devoted fan base.

Having consistently ranked among the top two clubs in attendance since their debut, Charlotte FC has averaged an impressive 35,000 fans per game. The Bank of America Stadium has also regularly attracted crowds of over 50,000 for significant international soccer events, including the Copa América and FIFA Club World Cup.

The economic impact of the stadium on the local region is substantial, generating an estimated $1.1 billion annually for the Charlotte Metropolitan Statistical Area. This economic vitality is further highlighted by the planned week-long festivities that will accompany the All-Star Game, which aims to celebrate soccer and culture throughout the city.

Community Engagement and Activities

The All-Star Week will feature events that cater to fans of all ages. Activities planned include the MLS All-Star Skills Challenge presented by AT&T and the MLS NEXT All-Star Game presented by Allstate. This celebration is expected to attract visitors to Charlotte, positively influencing the local economy.

Local leaders, including the Mayor of Charlotte and the Governor of North Carolina, have expressed confidence in the economic benefits that hosting the All-Star Game will bring to the city and the state. With the establishment of North Carolina’s new Major Events Fund, the state is enhancing its competitive edge in securing high-profile events, further solidifying Charlotte’s status as an emerging hub for soccer and major sporting events.

Transformations at Bank of America Stadium

Under the ownership of Tepper Sports & Entertainment since 2018, Bank of America Stadium has undergone significant upgrades, transitioning from a facility focused solely on football to a versatile multi-sport venue. This transformation has prepared the stadium to host a wide variety of events, including the upcoming MLS All-Star Game.

The date and opponent for the 2026 MLS All-Star Game have yet to be revealed, as anticipation builds for what will be a landmark moment for Charlotte FC and the city.

Summary

Hosting the 2026 MLS All-Star Game is not just a milestone for Charlotte FC; it is a testament to the city’s fervent soccer culture and its commitment to providing exceptional experiences for fans. With a robust local economy and a growing reputation for impactful sporting events, Charlotte is poised to showcase its capabilities to the world.

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Additional Resources

• WRAL
• Charlotte FC
• ESPN
• MLS Soccer
• Wikipedia: Major League Soccer All-Star Game