Garber was joined by team owners David and Nicole Tepper of Tepper Sports and Entertainment, as well as Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles. Lyles says the game is expected to bring millions of dollars into the city. The state of North Carolina provided a $2 million grant to help lure the game.

David Tepper, Don Garber, Mayor Vi Lyles and Johnny Harris are pictured with jerseys and gear at the announcement on July 16, 2025 that Charlotte will host the 2026 MLS All-Star Game. Major League Soccer has big plans for Charlotte, as the city prepares to host a marquee event that will showcase its passion for the game.

MLS has yet to publicly detail how it plans to schedule its 2026 season around the World Cup, other than to say it will not play league matches during the 39-day event.