STWF Sports | LOS ANGELES | March 11, 2026 — A familiar face in Los Angeles soccer history is stepping into a new role off the pitch. Carlos Vela, the iconic forward who helped define the early success of Los Angeles FC, has officially joined the club’s ownership group, further strengthening his connection to the organization he helped build from its inception.
LAFC announced the move this week, confirming that Vela will transition from club legend to part-owner while continuing to represent the team as its first Black and Gold Ambassador. The appointment ensures that one of the most influential players in club history will remain closely tied to the organization’s future.
“LAFC has always been more than a club to me — it is home,” Vela said in a statement released by the team. “From the first day, we set out to build something special for Los Angeles, and I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together.”
“Becoming an owner is an honor and a responsibility I take seriously. I’m excited to continue supporting the club, our players and our fans as we keep building for the future.”
Joining a Star-Studded Ownership Group
With the announcement, Vela joins one of the most recognizable ownership groups in global soccer. LAFC’s investment group already includes Hollywood actor Will Ferrell, NBA Hall of Famer Magic Johnson, and Italian football legend Giorgio Chiellini, among numerous business leaders and sports figures.
The addition of Vela adds another influential soccer voice to the club’s leadership structure while reinforcing LAFC’s reputation as one of Major League Soccer’s most high-profile organizations.
Club officials confirmed that Vela’s ownership stake will not impact his responsibilities as ambassador, a role that includes representing LAFC at international events and strengthening relationships with supporters and the local community.
The First Star of LAFC
Vela’s ties to LAFC date back to the club’s earliest days. In 2017, he became the franchise’s first signing as a Designated Player, arriving one year before the club began play in Major League Soccer.
The Mexican forward quickly emerged as the face of the franchise, helping establish the club’s identity on the field and building a connection with supporters across Los Angeles.
Over six seasons with the club, Vela made 152 appearances in all competitions, scoring 78 goals and adding 42 assists — both club records. His influence extended far beyond the stat sheet as he helped guide LAFC to five major trophies during his tenure, including the club’s historic 2022 MLS Cup championship.
Historic 2019 Season
The defining campaign of Vela’s MLS career came in 2019 when he produced one of the most dominant seasons in league history.
That year, the forward scored 34 goals and added 10 assists in just 31 regular-season matches, setting the MLS single-season scoring record. His remarkable performance earned him the MLS Most Valuable Player Award and helped elevate LAFC into one of the league’s premier clubs.
The record-setting season remains one of the most celebrated individual campaigns in MLS history.
A Global Career
Before arriving in Los Angeles, Vela built an accomplished career across Europe.
The forward began his professional journey with Arsenal FC, where he spent several seasons while also gaining experience through loan spells with West Bromwich Albion and other European sides.
He later found his greatest European success with Real Sociedad in Spain’s La Liga, becoming one of the club’s most productive attacking players during his time there.
A Lasting Legacy in Los Angeles
When Vela announced his retirement from professional soccer in May 2025, he did so as arguably the most influential player in LAFC history.
Now, with his transition into club ownership, his role within the organization enters a new chapter — one that ensures his voice will remain part of LAFC’s long-term vision.
For a club that has rapidly grown into one of MLS’s marquee franchises, the continued involvement of its founding superstar provides both continuity and inspiration for the next generation of players wearing the black and gold.
