MLS All-Star Game missing Messi but hoping to capitalize on post-World Cup lift

The 2026 MLS All-Star Game, scheduled for Wednesday, will see MLS All-Stars face Liga MX All-Stars, but will be missing high-profile players including Lionel Messi, Rodrigo De Paul, and current MLS Golden Boot leader Hugo Cuypers. Beyond the on-field action, the week is considered significant as MLS owners will hold a Board of Governors meeting to discuss the future of the league. The event takes place in the backdrop of post-2026 World Cup momentum, which the league is looking to capitalise on despite some fan fatigue.