Philadelphia, PA, August 6, 2025
News Summary
Major League Soccer and adidas have introduced the United We Play pre-match jersey, highlighting the league’s diversity with representation from over 80 countries. This initiative underscores MLS’s commitment to inclusion and marks a significant step forward in promoting Black representation through updated hiring policies. Teams like the Portland Timbers and Philadelphia Union will showcase the jersey, which is available for fans to purchase. The league aims for continued progress in diversity, equity, and inclusion within its operations.
Philadelphia, PA – Major League Soccer (MLS) has partnered with adidas to launch the 2025 United We Play pre-match jersey, a new initiative designed to recognize and celebrate the diverse community that forms the league. The jersey is set to be worn by teams across MLS, emphasizing the exceptional representation of over 80 countries on the field.
The United We Play top is not just a fan favorite; it symbolizes the league’s commitment to diversity, which has been a hallmark of MLS throughout its 30-year history. As the most diverse professional soccer league in the world, this jersey aims to further highlight the importance of inclusion within the sport. Teams such as the Portland Timbers and Philadelphia Union are among those promoting the jersey, which will soon be available for purchase both online and in stores, including the Philadelphia Union Shop.
Alongside this jersey launch, MLS has announced substantive updates to its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) hiring policies, particularly focusing on enhancing representation for Black candidates within the league. As it stands, 25% of MLS players are Black; however, only 7% of assistant coaches and 10% of head coaches hold that same representation. The revised hiring policy aims to increase these numbers, emphasizing a commitment to a more balanced and equitable representation.
The updated policy builds on the previous Rooney Rule, requiring teams to present finalist pools for open technical positions that include at least two non-white candidates, one of whom must identify as Black/African American. This marks a significant shift from the previous standard, which allowed teams to interview just one diverse candidate. Additionally, teams are mandated to ensure candidates for all positions possess comparable experience, ensuring a fairer hiring process.
In response to critiques surrounding definitions of diversity, the updated policy offers a clearer definition of underrepresented groups, encompassing a variety of racial, ethnic, and gender identities. However, some experts have raised concerns, especially regarding the combined categorization of Hispanic and Latinx individuals, which has sparked debate within the community.
Enforcement and Accountability
The implementation of these policies will be closely monitored by MLS’ general counsel and DEI office, alongside league leadership. Teams found in violation of these policies may face sanctions, including fines that could reach $50,000 for first offenses. Moreover, MLS will introduce a diversity policy portal, where clubs must submit information on vacant technical positions and details about candidates as part of a broader effort to increase transparency and accountability within the hiring process.
This DEI policy will undergo annual evaluations, adapting as necessary based on recruitment and hiring data, ensuring continuous progress and responsiveness to the needs of the league’s diverse community.
Upcoming MLS Season
In addition to the launch of the United We Play jersey and new hiring policies, the 2025 MLS schedule has also been released, encouraging fans to secure tickets for upcoming matches at venues like Subaru Park. The growing anticipation surrounding the new season is likely to be bolstered by the support for diversity that the league is championing through this new initiative.
Key Highlights
- MLS collaborates with adidas to launch the 2025 United We Play pre-match jersey.
- Jersey symbolizes diversity, with participation from more than 80 countries.
- MLS introduces revised diversity hiring policies to support Black candidates in coaching positions.
- Mandatory inclusion of diverse candidates in head coaching and technical position finalist pools.
- Sanctions for teams violating the policy, including fines up to $50,000.
Conclusion
The introduction of the United We Play jersey, alongside rigorous new DEI policies, represents a significant step for MLS in promoting diversity within the league. This commitment not only aims to enhance representation within coaching and technical positions but also seeks to foster a more inclusive environment for players and fans alike.
FAQ
What is the United We Play jersey?
The United We Play jersey is a pre-match jersey launched by MLS and adidas to celebrate the diversity of players and fans within the league.
Where can fans purchase the United We Play top?
Fans can purchase the United We Play top online and at various MLS team stores, including the Philadelphia Union Shop.
What changes have been made to MLS hiring policies?
The updated hiring policies aim to improve diversity by requiring finalist pools for technical positions to include at least two non-white candidates, one of whom must be Black/African American.
What measures will be taken for policy compliance?
MLS will monitor compliance with the new hiring policy and impose sanctions, including fines for teams that fail to comply.
How often will the DEI policy be reviewed?
The DEI policy will be evaluated annually to ensure its effectiveness and adapt to hiring data as necessary.
Key Features of the United We Play Initiative
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Jersey Launch | United We Play pre-match jersey unveiled to celebrate diversity in MLS. |
| Availability | Jersey available for purchase online and in team stores. |
| Diversity Policy Updates | Enhanced hiring policies to promote Black representation in coaching positions. |
| Policy Compliance | Teams face sanctions for non-compliance, including potential fines. |
| Annual Review | DEI policies will be reviewed every year for effectiveness. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Portland Timbers News
- Philadelphia Union News
- MLS Soccer News
- ESPN Soccer Article
- CNBC News Article
- Wikipedia: Major League Soccer
- Google Search: Major League Soccer Diversity Policy
- Google Scholar: Diversity in Sports
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Major League Soccer
- Google News: Major League Soccer
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