KKR Makes Strategic Investment to Accelerate Growth of MLS NEXT Pro

Key Points:

• Major League Soccer (MLS) and investment firm KKR have formed Hometown Soccer Holdings (HSH) to accelerate growth of MLS NEXT Pro, focusing on stadium development, new club brands, and enhancing fan experiences in local communities.
• The partnership aims to expand MLS NEXT Pro’s reach, improve soccer-specific infrastructure, and deepen club-community connections across the U.S. and Canada, supporting player development and league growth.
• HSH will be led by experienced executives Tom Glick and Chris Klein, both with extensive backgrounds in MLS and international soccer management.
• Since its 2022 launch, MLS NEXT Pro has become a key part of the U.S. soccer ecosystem, with 255 players advancing to MLS first teams and plans to add more independent clubs by 2027.
• KKR brings significant sports investment experience, committing nearly $9 billion to the sector since 2010, and will support HSH’s efforts to develop new stadiums and clubs that reflect local market identities and foster fan engagement.