MLS Commissioner Defends Ban on Political Signs, Says Teams Can Still Speak Out
MLS Commissioner Don Garber is standing firm on the league’s ban on political signage by fan groups, but he clarified that teams themselves are still free to make political statements if they choose.
During a press conference ahead of the MLS All-Star Game, Garber responded to questions regarding protests by MLS supporters' groups who are opposing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the broader federal immigration crackdown. His message was clear: the league's top priority is keeping the stadium environment safe and welcoming for everyone.
“We’re committed to making sure the environment at our matches doesn’t incite conflict,” Garber said. “That’s why we enforce a policy that bans political signs or any displays tied to legislative matters inside our venues.”
He added, “I understand the emotions behind this. I grew up surrounded by diversity, and we’re proud to be a diverse league. But we need to approach these matters with caution and care.”
MLS estimates that around 30% of its fanbase is Hispanic, and recent ICE activity across the U.S. has left many feeling unsafe—even at soccer games. In May, Latino supporters of Nashville SC suspended their usual gameday rituals in protest of ICE’s actions, telling SixOneFive Soccer and The Athletic they felt “targeted” and “hunted.”
This past weekend, during the high-profile clash between LAFC and LA Galaxy, LAFC fans unveiled a powerful tifo reading “Los Angeles unidos jamás será vencido” (“Los Angeles, united, will never be defeated”) in response to recent ICE raids in the city, which led to over 2,700 arrests. According to mid-June ICE data, more than 11,700 people were in detention—many with no criminal record.
LAFC later issued a strong statement: “In times like these, when many in our city are filled with fear and uncertainty, we stand shoulder to shoulder with all members of our community.” To date, they’re the only MLS club to take such a public stand.
On the flip side, the LA Galaxy banned fans who displayed anti-ICE banners at a recent match, prompting other supporters to boycott the game in protest. Similar banners have surfaced in other MLS markets, including Austin—the host of the All-Star Game—and Chicago.
When asked whether the league bears any responsibility to protect fans during escalating ICE raids, Garber replied, “We’re not in a position to serve as a protective entity. But we are committed to making sure our stadiums remain safe spaces.”
He emphasized that while teams can speak out, they’re under no obligation to do so: “If a club wants to make a statement, that’s their choice. But the league hasn’t, and won’t, make an official statement. Our mission is simple: do what we can to keep the game day experience safe for everyone.”