The 2013 MLS season was a memorable year that saw Sporting Kansas City claim their first MLS Cup championship since 2000. The season ran from March to December and featured several significant storylines including the debut of New York City FC being announced as the league's 20th franchise.
Sporting Kansas City defeated Real Salt Lake 1-1 (7-6 on penalties) in the MLS Cup Final at Sporting Park, with the match being decided by a dramatic penalty shootout. The regular season was won by the New York Red Bulls, who claimed the Supporters' Shield with 59 points. Individual honors went to Mike Magee of the Chicago Fire, who won the MLS MVP award after a breakout season.
The season also marked important developments in MLS expansion and infrastructure, with several new soccer-specific stadiums being planned and the league continuing its growth trajectory toward becoming a more prominent force in North American professional sports.