LAFC Retains Top Spot as MLS’s Most Valuable Team
Feb 21, 2025, 11:59 AM ET
In a thrilling revelation for soccer enthusiasts and business analysts alike, LAFC has once again proven its mettle by holding onto its crown as the most valuable team in Major League Soccer. This marks the third consecutive year that LAFC has topped the list, according to the annual 2025 list published by business magazine Forbes on Friday.
LAFC’s valuation has reached an impressive $1.25 billion, marking a 4% increase from the previous year. This figure is nearly double the $690 million average value of the league’s 29 teams. It’s worth noting that the expansion club San Diego FC, which is set to begin playing this year, was omitted from the ranking.
Meanwhile, Lionel Messi‘s influence on Inter Miami has been nothing short of transformative. Since his arrival in July 2023, Messi has fueled a surge in sponsorships and fan engagement, propelling Miami to the second spot on the list. Their value has skyrocketed by 17% to $1.2 billion, and according to Forbes, Miami’s valuation has doubled since 2022.
Despite their financial success, Miami’s on-field performance in the 2024 MLS campaign was a mixed bag. The team claimed a league-record 74 regular season points, and Messi took home MVP honors. However, their journey was cut short with a shocking first-round elimination from the playoffs.
Rounding out the top five most valuable MLS teams are the reigning MLS Cup champions LA Galaxy with a valuation of $1 billion, Atlanta United FC at $975 million, and New York City FC at $875 million.
As the MLS gears up for its 30th season, which kicks off on Saturday, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how these financial powerhouses will perform on the field. The league’s growth in both financial and competitive terms is a testament to the increasing popularity and investment in soccer in the United States.
- Top 5 Most Valuable MLS Teams:
- LAFC – $1.25 billion
- Inter Miami – $1.2 billion
- LA Galaxy – $1 billion
- Atlanta United FC – $975 million
- New York City FC – $875 million
With the new season on the horizon, the anticipation is palpable. Will LAFC continue to dominate both financially and on the pitch? Can Messi lead Inter Miami to greater heights? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the excitement surrounding MLS is at an all-time high.
Originally Written by: Reuters
