The 2026 MLS All-Star Game is shaping up to be one of the most star-studded events in league history, with Major League Soccer announcing the First XI players selected by fans, players, and media on Friday, June 5. The lineup is headlined by global superstars Lionel Messi of Inter Miami CF and Son Heung-Min of LAFC, alongside a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging young talents.
The 2026 MLS All-Star Game presented by Chime will see the MLS All-Stars take on a team of All-Stars from Mexico’s LIGA MX on Wednesday, July 29 at 8 p.m. ET at Charlotte FC’s Bank of America Stadium. It marks the first time Charlotte has hosted the MLS All-Star Game, and the event is expected to draw thousands of fans to the Queen City.
Full First XI Roster
The starting lineup features five players who will also compete at the 2026 FIFA World Cup this summer: Sebastian Berhalter (United States), Son Heung-Min (South Korea), Mbekezeli Mbokazi (South Africa), Lionel Messi (Argentina), and Tim Ream (United States).
- Goalkeeper: Brian Schwake (Nashville SC)
- Left Back: Anthony Markanich (Minnesota United FC)
- Center Backs: Mbekezeli Mbokazi (Chicago Fire FC), Tim Ream (Charlotte FC)
- Right Back: Andy Najar (Nashville SC)
- Defensive Midfielder: Sebastian Berhalter (Vancouver Whitecaps FC)
- Attacking Midfielders: Zavier Gozo (Real Salt Lake), Hany Mukhtar (Nashville SC)
- Forwards: Hugo Cuypers (Chicago Fire FC), Son Heung-Min (LAFC), Leo Messi (Inter Miami CF)
All-Star Merchandise and Tickets
With the All-Star Game just weeks away, fans are already gearing up for the festivities. Tickets for both the MLS All-Star Game and the MLS All-Star Skills Challenge presented by AT&T are on sale now at MLSsoccer.com/AllStar. The event is part of a week-long soccer celebration in Charlotte featuring skills challenges, community events, and fan activations.
Nashville SC leads all clubs with three players selected to the First XI — Hany Mukhtar, Andy Najar, and Brian Schwake — marking a historic achievement for the club. At 19 years old, Real Salt Lake midfielder Zavier Gozo becomes just the second teenager named to an MLS All-Star Game in the last five editions.
This year’s matchup between MLS and Liga MX All-Stars continues the cross-league rivalry that has electrified fans since its return. MLS won last year’s edition 3-1 in Austin. For the latest on All-Star merchandise, jerseys, and fan gear, be sure to check the official MLS store and club shops.