MLS Players and Owners Clash Over World Cup Bonuses Amid Seattle Sounders' Historic Soccer Lesson Event

June 14, 2025
MLS Players and Owners Clash Over World Cup Bonuses Amid Seattle Sounders' Historic Soccer Lesson Event
  • MLS players are currently engaged in negotiations over prize pool bonuses just ahead of the Club World Cup, which kicks off on June 15, 2025.

  • Club owners have proposed an additional 20% in performance bonuses on top of a guaranteed $1 million, while players are countering with a demand for 40% of the total prize pool.

  • Bob Foose, Executive Director of the MLS Players Association, indicated that discussions regarding bonuses may extend beyond the tournament, highlighting the ongoing nature of collective bargaining.

  • Foose also pointed out that the current situation has affected the player pool and could complicate future agreements.

  • Despite dissatisfaction with the negotiations, players, including Sounders midfielder Albert Rusnák, have affirmed their commitment to compete and will not boycott matches.

  • Rusnák emphasized the importance of focusing on winning rather than the bonus situation, stating that competition takes precedence once the game begins.

  • In a related event, the Sounders announced they have reached maximum RSVP capacity for a Guinness World Record attempt for the largest soccer lesson, scheduled for June 15, 2025, at Pier 62.

  • Recently, the Sounders celebrated by raising their club's flag above the Space Needle, with notable figures like Ken Griffey Jr. participating in the event.

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