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Charlotte to host the 2026 MLS All-Star Game

The All-Star Game will place Charlotte in the global spotlight, showcasing the city’s rise as a world-class soccer destination.

A crowd of people holding jerseys on a stage.

Soccer fans will flock to Bank of America Stadium as it hosts the 2026 MLS All-Star Game.

Photo by CLTtoday

As Charlotte FC so eloquently put it, “We built a soccer city they couldn’t ignore.”

Bank of America Stadium and Charlotte FC will host the 2026 MLS All-Star Game. The game will come immediately after the 2026 World Cup, and it’s expected to draw thousands to Uptown.

“Charlotte FC, you’ve earned this,” MLS Commissioner Don Garber said during the press conference this week. “Get ready, Charlotte. The world is coming and we can’t wait to celebrate with you.”

CLTtoday_Soccer timeline_July 2025

A brief history of Charlotte’s growth as a soccer city.

Graphic by CLTtoday

🏟️ Scores of history

The Queen City has grown into a soccer hub, starting with the debut of its first professional team, the Carolina Lightnin’ in 1981. Fun fact: They won the American Soccer League Championship in their inaugural year. How many people attended?

Since then:

📈 Soccer by the numbers

  • Charlotte FC drew a record 74,479 fans in its inaugural game
  • 70,000+ fans attended the July 2025 FIFA Club World Cup game featuring Real Madrid vs. Pachuca
  • David and Nicole Tepper developed 14 mini pitches across the city, creating 20 million minutes of grassroots soccer programming
  • The Carolina Ascent FC opener sold out a crowd of 10,553 fans in its inaugural match against DC Power FC in 2024
  • Three million fans are anticipated to attend matches at BofA Stadium by the end of 2025
Charlotte FC players compete for the soccer ball during a match at Bank of America Stadium.

The Fortress gets loud when Charlotte FC plays.

Photo by CLTtoday

💰 Brass tacks

The State of North Carolina will provide a $2 million grant from the Major Events, Games, and Attractions Fund — which is supported by sports betting revenue — to help fund the event.

Food for thought: In 2024, Charlotte FC games brought in an estimated $90.6 million to the Queen City.

⚽️ What to expect in 2026

The 2026 MLS All-Star Game will be more than just a match; it will encompass a week-long series of festivities including the All-Star Skills Challenge, a fan festival, and community-focused programs.

Want an idea of what’s to come? Check out what’s planned at this year’s event in Austin, TX (hey, ATXtoday).

Plus, the game and events will be broadcast globally in over 100 countries on MLS Season Pass through Apple TV.

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