News Summary
Charlotte is set to make history by hosting the 2026 MLS All-Star Game at Bank of America Stadium, marking the first time Charlotte FC takes on this prestigious event. The All-Star Game is expected to bring in significant economic benefits to the city, with over 1.1 billion dollars in projected economic impact. It will host various activities celebrating soccer and culture, and is expected to attract fans from around the world. The city’s growth in the soccer scene and renovations at the stadium have positioned it as a major sports destination.
Charlotte will make history as it prepares to host the 2026 MLS All-Star Game at Bank of America Stadium. Major League Soccer announced this landmark decision, marking the first time Charlotte FC, the city’s professional soccer team, will take the reins for this prestigious event. This matchup, which is the 30th edition of the All-Star Game, is set to unfold next summer and is expected to attract soccer fans not only from the U.S. but also internationally.
The All-Star Game will be broadcast globally in over 100 countries and regions through the MLS Season Pass via the Apple TV app, allowing a wide audience to witness this landmark event. The week surrounding the All-Star Game will feature a range of activities celebrating soccer and culture across Charlotte, drawing in fans of all ages.
Significant Economic Impact
The selection of Charlotte as the host city is anticipated to yield significant economic benefits. With an estimated annual economic impact of $1.1 billion for the Charlotte Metropolitan Statistical Area, the influx of visitors for the All-Star Game and related events will contribute positively to the local economy. Events planned during the week include the MLS All-Star Skills Challenge presented by AT&T and the MLS NEXT All-Star Game presented by Allstate.
City leaders, such as Charlotte’s mayor, have expressed pride in hosting the All-Star Game, emphasizing its potential to uplift local businesses and enhance the city’s profile as a major sports destination. North Carolina’s governor also pointed to the state’s new Major Events Fund as an asset that boosts competitiveness for hosting high-profile events.
Charlotte FC’s Rise in MLS
Since its establishment in 2019, Charlotte FC has quickly become a significant player in Major League Soccer. The team made its official debut in 2022, where they shattered attendance records by welcoming 74,479 fans for their inaugural home match. The club’s presence has helped place Charlotte among the top two teams in league attendance, with games averaging around 35,000 fans.
Bank of America Stadium has also made its mark, consistently drawing over 50,000 fans for international matches, including renowned events like the Copa América and the FIFA Club World Cup. The facility has undergone significant renovations since Tepper Sports & Entertainment took ownership in 2018, transforming it into a multi-sport venue that can host a variety of major events.
A Growing Soccer City
MLS Commissioner acknowledged the rapid growth of Charlotte as a “big-time soccer city,” praising the strong local support evidenced by packed stadiums during Charlotte FC home games and the successful hosting of international competitions. The engagement of the local community enhances the club’s efforts to establish Charlotte as a primary soccer destination in North America, benefiting from world-class facilities and a dedicated fan base.
As the anticipation builds for the All-Star Game, details regarding the exact date of the game and its opponent will be disclosed in the coming months. The excitement surrounding the event not only reflects the growth of soccer in Charlotte but also signals the city’s ongoing commitment to becoming a hub for major sporting events.
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Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
