Neymar’s MLS Move: A New Chapter in American Soccer? 
The long-anticipated antitrust trial involving the North American Soccer League (NASL), Major League Soccer (MLS), and the U.S. Soccer Federation (USSF) has commenced in Brooklyn, New York. This landmark case, which could reshape the landscape of professional soccer in the United States, centers on allegations of conspiracy and anti-competitive practices that led to the downfall of NASL.
Key Takeaways
- The trial began on January 14, 2025, and is expected to last three to four weeks.
- NASL accuses USSF and MLS of conspiring to undermine its operations and prevent it from achieving Division II status.
- Potential damages could exceed $500 million, with the possibility of treble damages under antitrust law.
Background of the Case
The NASL, which operated from 2011 to 2017, filed its lawsuit against the USSF in 2018 after being denied Division II status. The league claims that the USSF and MLS colluded to stifle competition, ultimately leading to its dissolution. The case has evolved over the years, now including MLS as a co-defendant.
The crux of the trial revolves around the standards set by the USSF for sanctioning leagues. NASL argues that these standards were applied discriminatorily, effectively preventing it from competing with MLS, the only Division I league in the U.S. In contrast, USSF and MLS maintain that NASL’s failures were self-inflicted, citing its inability to meet the necessary criteria for Division II status.
The Legal Battle
The trial is presided over by U.S. District Judge Hector Gonzalez, with both sides presenting their arguments in marathon sessions. NASL’s lead attorney, Jeffrey Kessler, opened the proceedings with a compelling argument, stating that the established powers in American soccer did not welcome competition from NASL. He described the soccer landscape as a “small, insular world” where belonging is crucial.
In response, USSF’s attorney, Christopher Yates, defended the organization’s standards, asserting that they have contributed to the growth of soccer in the U.S. He emphasized that the minimum standards were essential for maintaining a healthy ecosystem for professional soccer.
High-Profile Witnesses
The trial is expected to feature testimony from several notable figures, including:
- Cindy Parlow Cone – President of U.S. Soccer
- Don Garber – Commissioner of MLS
- Carmelo Anthony – Retired NBA star and former owner of Puerto Rico FC in NASL
- Clark Hunt – CEO of the Kansas City Chiefs and owner of FC Dallas
These testimonies will provide insight into the dynamics of American soccer and the relationships between the leagues and the governing body.
Potential Implications
If NASL succeeds in proving its case, the financial repercussions could be significant, with potential damages reaching up to $516 million. This case not only has the potential to impact the financial landscape of soccer in the U.S. but also to influence how leagues are sanctioned in the future.
As the trial unfolds, it promises to reveal the complexities of professional soccer governance in the United States and the challenges faced by lower-tier leagues in a competitive environment dominated by MLS. The outcome could set a precedent for how leagues operate and interact with governing bodies moving forward.
