News Summary
North Carolina has granted Charlotte $2 million to host the 2026 MLS All-Star Game at Bank of America Stadium. This funding comes from a newly created initiative aiming to attract major sporting events to boost local tourism and economy. While officials are optimistic about economic benefits, concerns about gambling addiction and the reliance on taxpayer funds have been raised. The state is also considering funding for over 10 other potential events, reflecting a commitment to enhance North Carolina’s visibility in the sports community.
Charlotte – North Carolina has awarded a $2 million grant to secure the 2026 Major League Soccer (MLS) All-Star Game for the city of Charlotte. The highly anticipated game is slated to be held at Bank of America Stadium, which is the home venue for both the Carolina Panthers and Charlotte FC.
This funding initiative comes from the newly established Major Events, Games, and Attractions Fund, created by the North Carolina General Assembly earlier in 2024. The fund was introduced following the legalization of sports betting in the state, aiming to attract significant sports events that could bolster tourism and local economy.
The grant of $2,028,950 represents one of three state-sponsored sports projects financed by this fund. As Charlotte prepares to host its first MLS All-Star Game—the 30th edition of the league’s annual event—local and state officials are optimistic about the potential economic benefits. MLS Commissioner Don Garber expressed confidence in bringing this prestigious game to Charlotte, pointing out the city’s evolving connection to the sport.
Events like the All-Star Game are believed to generate immediate economic activity, drawing tourists and boosting local businesses. However, concerns regarding the long-term impacts of such events have surfaced, particularly with respect to the risks of gambling addiction that have arisen with the legalization of sports betting.
North Carolina Secretary of Commerce Lee Lilley indicated that more than 10 other potential events are currently being considered for funding through this initiative, reflecting the state’s commitment to promotion of tourism and entertainment. The aim of the Major Events Fund is not only to attract sporting events but also to enhance North Carolina’s visibility as a prime destination for major attractions.
Despite this positive outlook, there are critical voices in the debate. Critics, including Brian Balfour from the John Locke Foundation, argue that relying on taxpayer funds to support events does not guarantee stable job creation or lasting improvements to local infrastructure. They warn that one-time events can fail to contribute meaningfully to overall economic growth in the long run.
In addition to this forthcoming MLS All-Star Game, Charlotte has successfully hosted noteworthy soccer events in recent years, including the FIFA Club World Cup and Copa América. These past events have strengthened the city’s reputation in the sporting community.
Governor Josh Stein of North Carolina has emphasized that this funding plays a vital role in making the state competitive for high-profile events. The decision to allocate resources to attract the MLS All-Star Game to Charlotte marks a notable shift in state policy regarding funding for sports events.
As the city gears up for the All-Star Game in 2026, the excitement among local fans and businesses is palpable. Details about the opposing team will be announced in the future, heightening anticipation for what promises to be a significant event in the Charlotte sports calendar.
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HERE Resources
Charlotte to Host 2026 Major League Soccer All-Star Game
Charlotte to Host 2026 MLS All-Star Game
Charlotte Set to Host 2026 MLS All-Star Game
Additional Resources
- Carolina Journal
- Axios Charlotte
- ABC11
- WCNC
- Charlotte Observer
- Wikipedia: 2026 MLS All-Star Game
- Google Search: North Carolina sports betting
- Google Scholar: Sports events economic impact
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sports
- Google News: Charlotte MLS All-Star Game
Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
