The 2024 Major League Soccer regular season has witnessed a surge in attendance, with over 11 million fans flocking to stadiums across the league.
As the season draws to a close, the total attendance has already eclipsed the previous record of 10,900,804 set in 2023, with 16 games remaining before the MLS Cup playoffs commence.
This milestone underscores the league’s growing popularity, with average attendance figures reaching 23,240.
A Three-Year Streak of 10 Million Plus Attendance
For the third consecutive year, MLS has surpassed the 10 million attendance mark during the regular season. This achievement demonstrates the league’s consistent growth and appeal to soccer enthusiasts nationwide.
Lionel Messi’s Impact on Attendance
The arrival of soccer legend Lionel Messi in July 2023 has likely contributed to the increase in attendance. Prior to Messi’s arrival, Inter Miami’s average attendance was a modest 17,000 in 2022.
However, with Messi on board, the team’s average attendance skyrocketed to 24,407 in 2023 and 29,778 in 2024, becoming the second-highest in the league.
Record-Breaking Crowds
Several high-profile matches have drawn record-breaking crowds this season. Inter Miami’s 3-2 victory over Sporting Kansas City at Arrowhead Stadium in April attracted an impressive 72,610 spectators, ranking as the fourth-largest crowd in MLS history.
Additionally, the El Tráfico derby between LA Galaxy and LAFC at the Rose Bowl in July drew over 70,000 fans, while Inter Miami’s 4-1 win at the New England Revolution saw 65,612 attendees.
Star Power Boosts League’s Appeal
Following Messi’s arrival, the league has witnessed a influx of high-profile players. Signings include Borussia Dortmund legend Marco Reus joining LA Galaxy in August, and French World Cup winners Hugo Lloris and Olivier Giroud joining LAFC.
The reunion of Messi with his former Barcelona teammate Luis Suárez has also bolstered Inter Miami’s squad, contributing to the team’s first-ever Supporters’ Shield victory in early October.
As the playoffs approach, Inter Miami is poised as a strong contender for the MLS Cup.
