Charlotte is about to take center stage in the soccer world as Major League Soccer’s 2026 All-Star Game comes to Bank of America Stadium later this month, bringing thousands of fans, international stars, and a week of events to the Queen City.
The MLS All-Stars will face Mexico’s LIGA MX All-Stars on Wednesday, July 29, at 8 p.m., marking the first time Charlotte FC has hosted the league’s showcase event. MLS Commissioner Don Garber previously called Charlotte a “world-class soccer destination” when announcing the event last year.
Adding to the excitement, Charlotte FC will have three players representing the host club on the All-Star roster for the first time in franchise history.
U.S. Men’s National Team captain Tim Ream earned his spot through fan, player, and media voting, while midfielder Pep Biel and captain Ashley Westwood were selected by Charlotte FC head coach Dean Smith.
Ream’s selection is especially notable because it comes 15 years after his first MLS All-Star appearance with the New York Red Bulls in 2011, tying the longest gap between All-Star selections in league history.
The 2026 roster features several of the biggest names in soccer, including Lionel Messi, Son Heung-min, Thomas Müller, Rodrigo De Paul, and standout performers from this summer’s FIFA World Cup.
This year’s squad includes 18 first-time MLS All-Stars, players from 15 different countries, and representatives from six continents, highlighting the league’s growing international reach.
Beyond the match itself, Charlotte will host a full week of festivities, including:
- MLS All-Star Skills Challenge presented by AT&T
- MLS NEXT All-Star Game presented by Allstate
- MLS All-Star Soccer Celebration
- Fan festivals, entertainment, and community events across Uptown Charlotte
MLS also unveiled the official 2026 All-Star jersey, which celebrates the league’s 30th All-Star Game with blue and green accents inspired by MLS’s original colors.
The All-Star Game is expected to generate a significant economic boost for Charlotte by filling hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues while showcasing the city to a global audience.
Tickets for both the MLS All-Star Game and the Skills Challenge are on sale now here.
