Garber distances MLS from USMNT success and raises stakes for Vancouver’s long-term home

• Garber: MLS less tied to USMNT fortunes today

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MLS commissioner Don Garber said that he does not think that there is a dependency today, the same way there was years ago" on the part of his league when it comes to the success of the US national team at the World Cup.

Garber made the remarks at his annual state of the league address, which traditionally takes place the week of MLS Cup in whichever city happens to hosting. This year, however, Garber delivered the remarks and took questions from media at Audi Field, home of DC United, the night before the draw for the 2026 Fifa World Cup. The US is hotly anticipating the reveal of their opponents for the tournament they will co-host, with the level of competition likely helping determine whether the US can advance past the quarter-finals, which would be its best finish in the modern era.