Paraag Marathe, the former Rangers vice chairman, is one of three candidates in the running to become the next commissioner of Major League Soccer (MLS), according to a report. The senior executive with the San Francisco 49ers has been shortlisted to replace Don Garber, who has held the position since 1999.
Marathe's Background with Rangers and Leeds
Marathe has been involved with Rangers since 49ers Enterprises and Andrew Cavenagh took control of the club last summer. He served as vice chairman under Cavenagh until February 2025, when he stepped down to comply with UEFA's multi-club ownership rules. The rules stipulate that if two clubs with the same ownership or executives with controlling influence qualify for the same European competition, one could be excluded. Despite Leeds United not being in contention for a European spot, and Rangers competing in the Champions League or Europa League, Marathe relinquished his role at Ibrox.
Marathe remains chairman of Leeds United, a position he continues to hold. His role with the 49ers, the NFL franchise that owns a majority stake in Leeds, has kept him in the spotlight of sports management.
MLS Commissioner Shortlist
The shortlist for the next MLS commissioner has been narrowed down to three names: Marathe, LAFC co-owner Larry Berg, and veteran media executive David Nathanson. Garber's contract is set to expire at the end of 2027, but he has indicated he may step down earlier. In May 2025, Garber said, "I’ll leave where it’s almost 30 years [as commissioner]. That’s a long time to be in any job, at any level."
Berg, a Canadian businessman, is a co-owner of Los Angeles FC and has been involved in soccer for years. Nathanson, a former executive at Fox Sports and NBC, brings extensive media experience to the table. The selection process is expected to conclude in the coming months.
