1996 MLS Season
Major League Soccer launched in 1996 with 10 founding clubs. D.C. United dominated the inaugural campaign, winning both the Supporters' Shield and MLS Cup behind Marco Etcheverry and Jaime Moreno.
Teams
10
MLS Cup Champion
D.C. United
vs LA Galaxy (3-2 (OT))
Awards
| Award | Winner |
|---|---|
| MVP | Carlos Valderrama |
| Golden Boot | Roy Lassiter (27 goals) |
| Newcomer of the Year | Steve Ralston |
| Goalkeeper of the Year | Mark Dodd |
| Coach of the Year | Bruce Arena |
| Supporters’ Shield | D.C. United |
Best XI
Tony MeolaEddie PopeCarlos ValderramaMarco EtcheverryRoy Lassiter
Expansion Teams
LA GalaxyD.C. UnitedColumbus CrewNew England RevolutionNY/NJ MetroStarsTampa Bay MutinyColorado RapidsSporting Kansas CityFC DallasSan Jose Earthquakes
Major Signings
- •Carlos Valderrama to Tampa Bay Mutiny
- •Marco Etcheverry to D.C. United
Key Moments
- •MLS launches with 10 teams in its inaugural season
- •D.C. United wins first MLS Cup