49ers Executive Paraag Marathe Reportedly Among Finalists for MLS Commissioner
The 49ers executive’s soccer ties and leadership at Leeds United helped put him on the three-person shortlist, sources said.
- Major League Soccer narrowed its search to three finalists to replace Commissioner Don Garber, multiple outlets reported Friday. The candidates are 49ers Enterprises president Paraag Marathe, LAFC co-owner Larry Berg, and former Fox executive David Nathanson.
- Since 1999, Commissioner Don Garber has overseen the league's expansion from 12 to 30 teams. The Board of Governors initiated a comprehensive succession planning process earlier this year, hiring recruitment firm Korn Ferry to lead the search.
- Each candidate brings distinct experience: Marathe leads Leeds United and holds 49ers Enterprises roles, Berg possesses operational knowledge as an LAFC co-owner, and Nathanson offers extensive broadcasting expertise from his tenure at Fox.
- All three candidates are expected to attend the MLS All-Star Game in Charlotte, North Carolina, on July 29, though officials do not anticipate an announcement during the event. A formal decision is expected in August.
- Significant challenges await the new commissioner, including negotiating a new media rights deal before the Apple contract expires in 2029. The incoming leader must also manage the Collective Bargaining Agreement with the MLS Players Association, which expires on Jan. 31, 2028.
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Source: MLS down to 3 names to replace Garber
The list of candidates to succeed Don Garber as MLS commissioner is down to three, with LAFC co-owner Larry Berg, 49ers Enterprises president Paraag Marathe and former Fox executive David Nathanson the three finalists, a source confirmed to ESPN.
49ers Could Lose Key Executive Right Before 2026 Campaign
One of the San Francisco 49ers' top executives, Paraag Marathe, is a finalist to become the next commissioner of the MLS. The post 49ers Could Lose Key Executive Right Before 2026 Campaign appeared first on HEAVY.
Replacement for MLS commissioner Don Garber down to two candidates: report
Major League Soccer owners identified three leading candidates to replace league commissioner Don Garber, but that list is now down to two. The Athletic reported Friday that Los Angeles FC co-owner Larry Berg, former Fox executive David Nathanson and San Francisco 49ers and Leeds United executive Paraag Marathe have all been discussed as potential replacements […] The post Replacement for MLS commissioner Don Garber down to two candidates: repor…
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