Media Resources

MLS to Host Second Annual Innovation Showcase at 2019 MLS All-Star Game

All-Star - 2018 - Innovation Showcase

NEW YORK, N.Y. (Friday, July 26, 2019) – The second annual Major League Soccer Innovation Showcase in collaboration with R/GA Ventures will take place prior to the 2019 MLS All-Star Game presented by Target. Attendees from across the media, and entertainment landscape will gather in Orlando with leaders from soccer leagues around the world to explore the role technology and innovation plays in the future of soccer and the media experience.


Media interested in attending the Innovation Showcase in Orlando may contact Angela Alfano of MLS PR at Angela.Alfano@MLSsoccer.com no later than Sunday, July 28 for additional details. Space is limited and media must R.S.V.P. to attend the event.


The event, which will include an opening address by MLS Commissioner Don Garber, will feature presentations from industry leaders on a variety of topics ranging from disruptive technology and its impact on viewing experiences to engaging and forging a deeper relationship with Gen-Z fans. Featured presentations include:


  • Max Luthy, Director of Trends and Insights at TrendWatching
  • Phil Wagner, Founder and CEO of Sparta Science
  • Rajiv Maheswaran, CEO of Second Spectrum
  • Juan Carlos Rodriguez, President of Sports, Univision


“The MLS Innovation Showcase provides a forum where thought leaders can come together and see new technology solutions.” said MLS Deputy Commissioner and President and Managing Director of MLS Business Ventures, Gary Stevenson. “As we develop new fan experiences we have found is that there is no better, more efficient way to motivate our fans than through innovative technology. It is our pleasure to host this year’s Innovation Showcase.”


MLS is producing the Innovation Showcase with R/GA Ventures, the investment and innovation arm of global agency R/GA. The two formed a partnership in June of 2018 to launch a technology accelerator that provides MLS with a first look at cutting edge new startups in strategic areas of focus for the League.


The 2019 MLS All-Star Game presented by Target will be televised domestically on FS1 and UniMás in the U.S., on TSN and TVA Sports in Canada, and in more than 170 countries around the world. Tickets for the MLS All-Star Game are available for purchase at Ticketmaster.com. More information on the 2019 MLS All-Star Game can be found at mlssoccer.com/allstar.


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About MLS:
Headquartered in New York City, Major League Soccer features 27 clubs throughout the United States and Canada, including future expansion teams in Nashville, Miami and Austin. The League plans to have 30 clubs in the coming years. For more information about MLS, visit www.MLSsoccer.com.