Charlotte to Host 2026 MLS All-Star Game with State Support
Raleigh, N.C. — In a significant development for sports enthusiasts and the local economy, Charlotte has been chosen as the host city for the 2026 Major League Soccer All-Star Game. This announcement, made by Governor Josh Stein in collaboration with Major League Soccer and the North Carolina Department of Commerce, highlights the state’s commitment to attracting major events through strategic funding initiatives.
The selection of Charlotte as the venue was made possible by a grant of $2,028,950 from the newly established Major Events, Games, and Attractions Fund. This fund, authorized by the legislature and managed by the Department of Commerce, aims to support large-scale events that boost economic activity and tourism in North Carolina.
“I am proud that North Carolina has been chosen to host the 2026 Major League Soccer All-Star Game,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Our state’s new Major Events Fund puts us in a stronger position to compete for these highly visible, top-tier events that draw people and their resources to our state. Visitors to Charlotte will see that North Carolina is a great place to live, work, and play.”
Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the competitive nature of securing such prestigious events. “Bringing the MLS All Star Game to Charlotte will showcase the talent of one of the most dynamic and fast-growing sports leagues,” said Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “The selection process for major events like this are very competitive, and we appreciate the General Assembly providing another tool to help the state to win more of these national-level events and attractions.”
Beyond the MLS All-Star Game, the Major Events Fund has already played a pivotal role in supporting other significant events across the state. Earlier this year, the City of Winston-Salem received a $2 million grant for the NASCAR Clash race at Bowman Gray Stadium, while Richmond County was awarded $1.65 million for the NASCAR Xfinity, ARCA, and Truck series races at the Rockingham Speedway.
The Major Events, Games, and Attractions Fund was established following the passage of a 2023 law that legalized sports betting in North Carolina (Session Law 2023-42/House Bill 347). The fund is partially financed by a state tax on wagering activities, with 30 percent of annual tax revenues dedicated to supporting the fund. Grants are awarded to local governments and organizing committees to cover costs associated with securing and executing major events.
For more information about the Major Events, Games, and Attractions Fund, visit the official page here.
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