MLS has a unique single-entity structure where the league centrally manages major revenue streams such as broadcasting rights, league-wide sponsorships, and expansion fees. These revenues are pooled and distributed among the owners. Individual clubs retain revenue from local sources including ticket sales, local sponsorships, stadium naming rights, and match-day concessions.
This model differs significantly from European leagues, where each club independently negotiates its own broadcasting and commercial deals. The MLS approach promotes competitive balance by ensuring all teams benefit from league-wide growth. However, clubs in larger markets with newer, privately-owned stadiums tend to generate more local revenue, creating some financial disparity. The Apple TV deal, which centralizes all media rights, further strengthens the pooled revenue model.