2023 MLS All-Star Game to be played in Washington, D.C.

For the first time in nearly 20 years, the All-Star Game is in the District

The MLS 2023 All-Star Game will be played at Audi Field in Washington, D.C., with the league announcing the choice today at D.C. United’s home stadium.

News of MLS choosing Audi Field broke last week. The 2023 edition of the All-Star Game will be played on July 19, 2023, with the opponent not yet named.

“We are thrilled to bring the MLS All-Star Game and festivities back to Washington, D.C., a city with a rich soccer history, as well as a diverse and vibrant soccer culture,” MLS Commissioner Don Garber said in announcing the news. “D.C. United and the community have always held a special place in the hearts of everyone who believed in the power and growth of soccer in the U.S., and Audi Field will provide an incredible backdrop for next summer’s game.”

The District of Columbia has hosted the All-Star Game twice before, with the 2002 and 2004 games both being held at RFK Stadium. The 2023 version will be Audi Field’s first significant league-wide event since opening in July 2018. Previous big events at Audi Field include MLS and NWSL playoff games—the Washington Spirit also call the stadium home—and international friendlies.

The All-Star Game opponent in each of the last two seasons has been a Liga MX All-Star team, with the 2021 edition going to MLS on penalties. The 2022 All-Star Game will take place on August 10 at Allianz Field in Minneapolis.

The 2023 All-Star Game will cap off a full week of events in D.C., with MLS noting that the All-Star Skills Challenge will be part of the festivities along with community initiatives, concerts, and parties.

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