TOCA Football, the world’s first technology-enabled soccer experience company, has announced a collaboration with Major League Soccer (MLS).
The 10-year partnership aims to grow the sport and develop new players in North America. As part of the deal, MLS will become a TOCA shareholder.
“TOCA is thrilled to welcome MLS as its shareholder and strategic partner,” said TOCA co-chairman Erik Anderson.
“We look forward to being in every MLS market with our growing footprint of TOCA Soccer training centers and TOCA Social entertainment venues that offer fun, authentic soccer experiences regardless of skill level.”
Billed as the Topgolf of soccer, TOCA Football was founded in 2016 by Eddie Lewis. It has two businesses, TOCA Soccer and TOCA Social.
TOCA Soccer operates innovative soccer training centres across North America. TOCA Social is the world’s first entertainment and dining concept featuring immersive soccer-based games.
As an official training partner of Major League Soccer, TOCA will introduce MLS content and activities to all 28 TOCA Soccer centres across the US and Canada. Additionally, TOCA and MLS will develop branded games for TOCA Social venues.
“Major League Soccer is excited to partner with TOCA to accelerate the growth of soccer in North America ahead of the 2026 World Cup,” said MLS commissioner Don Garber.
MLS games for TOCA Social venues
“This progressive partnership with TOCA is another important step for our league and sport, and we look forward to collaborating with them for many years to come.”
TOCA’s CEO Yoshi Maruyama said the deal is “a reflection of MLS and TOCA’s commitment to investing in the sport’s expansion leading up to the 2026 World Cup in the United States”.
“TOCA’s mission is to inspire everyone to play the beautiful game and we are delighted to be an integral and indispensable part of global soccer,” added Maruyama.
Earlier this year, TOCA Football became the largest indoor soccer centre operator in North America with its latest acquisition.
Images: TOCA Football
