Just hours after emerging as one of the three finalists to become Major League Soccer's next commissioner, San Francisco 49ers executive Paraag Marathe has withdrawn his name from consideration. Marathe, the president of 49ers Enterprises and chairman of English Premier League club Leeds United, informed those involved in the search of his decision Friday morning, according to Sportico. His withdrawal leaves Los Angeles FC co-owner Larry Berg and former Fox Sports executive David Nathanson as the remaining finalists to succeed longtime MLS commissioner Don Garber.
Marathe's candidacy made sense given his growing influence in global soccer. While he has spent more than two decades with the 49ers organization, where he helped oversee salary cap management, contract negotiations, and the franchise's business operations, his role has expanded significantly through 49ers Enterprises' investments in European football. He currently serves as chairman of Leeds United after helping guide the club back to the Premier League and also holds a leadership role following 49ers Enterprises' investment in Rangers FC.
The timing of Marathe's decision was unexpected, though. Reports identifying him as one of the final three candidates surfaced Friday morning, only for news of his withdrawal to follow later in the day. According to Sportico, Marathe was still notifying league officials of his decision as the initial reports became public.
MLS has been conducting a succession search since forming a committee in 2025 to identify Garber's eventual replacement. Garber, who has served as commissioner since 1999, remains under contract through the 2027 season and is expected to assist with the transition once a successor is chosen. During his tenure, the league has expanded from 12 to 30 clubs, secured major media partnerships, and experienced unprecedented growth.
For the 49ers, Marathe's decision means one of the organization's most influential executives will remain in place as the franchise prepares for the 2026 NFL season. His continued leadership also provides stability for 49ers Enterprises as it oversees the expansion of its international soccer portfolio. While his name was seriously considered for one of the most prominent jobs in North American sports, Marathe has opted to stay with the organization where he has spent the past 25 years.
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