Today, Governor Josh Stein announced that Charlotte will host the 2026 Major League Soccer All-Star Game. This decision is supported by a $2,028,950 grant from the North Carolina Department of Commerce’s Major Events, Games, and Attractions Fund. The fund was established by a legislative act to support high-profile events in the state.
Governor Stein expressed pride in North Carolina’s selection for the event. “I am proud that North Carolina has been chosen to host the 2026 Major League Soccer All-Star Game,” he said. “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.”
Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley emphasized the competitive nature of securing such events. “Bringing the MLS All Star Game to Charlotte will showcase the talent of one of the most dynamic and fast-growing sports leagues,” he stated.
Earlier this year, Winston-Salem received a $2 million grant from the same fund for hosting a NASCAR Clash race at Bowman Gray Stadium. Richmond County also benefited with a $1.65 million grant for NASCAR series races at Rockingham Speedway.
The Major Events Fund was created under Session Law 2023-42/House Bill 347, which legalized sports betting in North Carolina. A portion of tax revenues from wagering activities supports this fund. Local governments and organizing committees can apply for grants to cover expenses related to hosting major events.
More information on the Major Events, Games, and Attractions Fund is available online.
