Greater Cincinnati Selected to Host 2027 MLS NEXT Cup

Greater Cincinnati has been designated as the host for the 2027 MLS NEXT Cup presented by Allstate, with local leaders projecting an economic impact of approximately $30 million. The event is expected to attract 350 teams, resulting in around 50,000 hotel room bookings in the area next summer.

The announcement follows the release of MLS NEXT's 2026-27 season schedule, which includes Cincinnati as a venue for regional qualifiers and the final event of the season. The MLS NEXT Cup is set to take place from June 5 to 13, 2027, at Voice of America Park, Warren County Sports Park, and TQL Stadium. The competition will feature the top MLS NEXT teams vying for championships across six age groups, from U13 to U19.

Ben Huffman, executive director of the Cincinnati Regional Sports Commission, noted, "An event like MLS NEXT Cup fills hotels, restaurants, and local businesses for more than a week, and it puts Greater Cincinnati at the sport’s epicenter for families, players, and scouts from across North America." He highlighted the collaboration among various partners, including Travel Butler County and the Warren County Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval emphasized the city's hospitality, stating, "$30 million in economic impact means jobs, revenue, and opportunity for all our neighborhoods. Thousands of young athletes and their families will see what makes this city special, and many will want to come back."

Jeff Berding, co-CEO of FC Cincinnati, expressed excitement for showcasing the city: "We are thrilled to welcome the MLS NEXT Playoffs to Cincinnati in 2027... this event is another reflection of the growth and passion for soccer throughout our community. We are especially grateful to the Cincinnati Sports Commission for its partnership."

Hamilton County Commission President Stephanie Summerow Dumas called it a significant opportunity for local business, stating, "Hosting MLS NEXT Cup is a major win for Hamilton County."

Warren County Commissioner Dave Young noted the park's design for impactful events, saying, "We’re thrilled to join our neighboring communities in welcoming the Cup in 2027."

T.C. Rogers, Butler County Board of Commissioners President, remarked on the chance for regional exposure, highlighting the opportunity to showcase Butler County amidst soccer's rising popularity.

The 2027 MLS NEXT Cup will also feature an expanded Allstate Homegrown Division, increasing participation from 32 to 48 teams for U15 through U19 age groups, including competitions for junior and senior prospects aiming to attract attention from professional and collegiate scouts.

An early glimpse of the competition will occur from April 9-12, 2027, during the Ohio Regional MLS NEXT Cup Qualifier at Voice of America Athletic Complex in West Chester.

MLS NEXT's 2026-27 season stands out as the largest to date, with more than 53,000 players, 2,743 teams, and 310 clubs—including all 30 MLS academies—competing in over 27,000 matches across the U.S. and Canada.