How apartheid, European racism and Pelé helped cultivate a culture of diversity in US soccer that endures into Messi-era MLS

Major League Soccer is the most diverse league in the US. Its predecessor, the NASL, led the way.

By: John M Sloop, Vanderbilt University, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: February 20, 2026

Words: 1,340

Last Updated: 3 days, 10 hours ago

By John M Sloop, Vanderbilt University

North America’s most diverse professional league kicks off on Feb. 21, 2026, as Major League Soccer returns after a winter break.

The league, commonly known as the MLS, long prided itself as a standard-bearer for racial and national diversity: With players representing around 80 countries across six continents competing for teams. Members of racial minorities make up 63% of players and 36% of head coaches, …

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