Carlos Vela joins LAFC ownership group in historic move for the club | OneFootball

LAFC announced a symbolic and historic change within the organization on Tuesday: Carlos Vela, one of the most important players in the club’s history and a longtime fan favorite, has officially joined the ownership group of the MLS franchise.

The former Mexican forward, who became the club’s first global star when LAFC entered the league, now returns to BMO Stadium in a new role off the field. Vela will remain connected to the project he helped build, this time as an investor and member of the club’s leadership structure.

The move reinforces Vela’s deep connection with LAFC and 2018, when he became the first Designated Player.

Official presentation scheduled at BMO Stadium

LAFC confirmed that Vela will be officially introduced as a member of the ownership group during a press conference at BMO Stadium.

Event details

Date: Saturday, March 14

Time: 6:00 p.m. PT

Location: BMO Stadium, Los Angeles

In an official statement, the club highlighted the historic significance of Vela’s arrival in the ownership group, noting that the Mexican star was one of the most influential figures in the history of both LAFC and Major League Soccer.

Club leadership emphasized that the decision reflects a core principle of the organization: recognizing and honoring the individuals who helped shape the club’s identity on and off the field.

Vela celebrates new chapter with LAFC

Carlos Vela expressed enthusiasm about the new stage of his relationship with the club, describing LAFC as something much bigger than just a team in his career.

“LAFC has always been more than a club for me. It’s my home,” Vela said. “From day one, we wanted to build something special for Los Angeles, and I’m very proud of what we achieved together.”

The former captain acknowledged that joining the ownership group carries significant responsibility.

“Becoming an owner is an honor. I’m excited to continue supporting the club, the players, and the fans as we keep building the future of LAFC.”

Vela also reflected on his arrival in Los Angeles nearly a decade ago, when he accepted the challenge of leading a project in its early stages.

“When I arrived in Los Angeles almost ten years ago, I was looking for a new challenge. We wanted to create something from scratch. Today I look back with pride at everything we built.”

Club leadership highlights Vela’s legacy

LAFC lead owner Bennett Rosenthal praised Vela’s impact on the organization and described the move as a natural step in the club’s evolution.

Carlos Vela in 2022 with LAFC (Celso Oliveira / Pitchside US)

“Carlos has always personified the excellence, ambition, and leadership that define LAFC,” Rosenthal said. “Since his arrival, he has helped set the Black & Gold standard and elevated the club to a world-class level.”

For Rosenthal, Vela joining the ownership group represents recognition of the legacy he built during his playing career.

LAFC co-president and general manager John Thorrington also emphasized the Mexican star’s long-term influence on the club.

“Carlos Vela’s impact goes far beyond goals and trophies. This club simply wouldn’t be what it is today without him,” Thorrington said.

“He helped shape our style of play, our culture, and our connection to the city of Los Angeles from day one.”

Carlos Vela’s legacy at LAFC

Since the club’s inaugural season, Vela has become the most recognizable figure in LAFC history and one of the defining players of the MLS era.

Among his major achievements with the club:

• First player in LAFC history

• Longtime team captain

• MLS MVP winner

• MLS Cup champion

• Offensive leader and central figure in the club’s identity

With his new role as an owner, Vela will continue influencing the club’s direction, now participating in strategic and institutional decisions.

A growing trend in MLS

Vela’s move also reflects a broader trend across Major League Soccer, where former players increasingly transition into ownership or investment roles within clubs.

For LAFC, the decision ensures that one of the most important figures in the team’s history remains closely tied to the organization.