Meeting Between MLS and UzPFL Representatives Held in New York

Taking advantage of the current break in the Superleague, UzPFL specialists visited the MLS headquarters to exchange experience and insights. It is no secret that both organizations’ representatives participate together each year in the World Leagues Forum's annual congress.

Founded in 1996, Major League Soccer (MLS) has come a long way in its nearly 30-year history. Today, MLS has achieved significant success in areas such as broadcasting rights, marketing, and contractual relations with players. These processes and the steps taken along the way serve as a valuable learning opportunity for the Uzbekistan Professional Football League (UzPFL). Therefore, collaboration and experience sharing with MLS hold great importance for the UzPFL.

The delegation to the United States was led by League General Director Diyor Imamkhodjaev and included the heads of the Competitions, Marketing, International Relations, and Media departments. Kamoliddin Murzoyev, Chairman of the Uzbekistan Footballers’ Association and also a member of the League’s Executive Committee, was also part of the working group. The group was welcomed by Nelson Rodriguez, Executive Vice President of Competitions at MLS, who personally participated in all meetings with MLS specialists.

At the League’s request, MLS prepared dedicated presentations on the following topics, delivered by the primary coordinators responsible for each area:

– Intellectual Property and Commercial Rights — Shannon Featherston (Business Affairs Counsel), Jordan Franklin (Associate Counsel)

– Competition Management — Paul Grafer (Senior Manager, Competitions Department)

– MLS Next and MLS Next Pro Programs — Gordon Bengtson (Director, MLS Next Program)

– Player Contract Management — Christina LaBrie (Contracts Department Officer)

– Broadcast and Media — Johanna Rojas (Broadcasting Coordinator)

It is worth noting that the MLS visit exceeded expectations, marked by a warm, productive, and interactive atmosphere. We extend our sincere gratitude to the Major Soccer League for their thorough preparation and professional approach to each subject discussed.