After a surprise departure as the president and CEO of LA Galaxy owners Anschutz Entertainment Group (AEG) earlier this year, Tim Leiweke has found another job in the world of MLS and beyond.
Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment, the company that owns Toronto FC among several other Toronto professional teams, announced on Friday that Leiweke will be their new president and CEO, effective June 30.
"Tim Leiweke is one of the top sports executives in the world, renowned for his ability to build championship teams, premier entertainment events, and innovative brand and marketing opportunities," said MLSE chairman Larry Tanenbaum in a statement. "Tim's the right CEO at the right time to lead the transformation of MLSE."
READ: Galaxy stunned by sudden departure of Leiweke
Leiweke, who is credited with luring stars like David Beckham and Robbie Keane to the Galaxy, established a successful track record during his time with AEG, including back-to-back MLS Cup titles (2011 and 2012) and the 2012 Stanley Cup with the Los Angeles Kings.
"I am thrilled to have Tim back in Major League Soccer with MLSE,” MLS Commissioner Don Garber said in a statement. “He is without doubt one of the best executives in the sports industry and I look forward to working again with him closely at the league level and with Toronto FC.”
With holdings in multiple sports and entertainment venues, Leiweke transformed AEG into an international powerhouse. Now MLSE will try to capitalize on Leiweke's expertise in order to find sporting success of their own.
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"I'm honored and excited to be chosen to lead MLSE, a world-class sports and entertainment organization with the major league teams, premier facilities and employee team that rank with the very best across North America and internationally," said Leiweke in a statement.
"MLSE is woven into the character of Toronto," he continued. "The loyal and passionate fans of MLSE's teams want sports championships for this great city. They want excitement on the ice, on the court, on the pitch and on the stage. And they want MLSE to be an active part of their community. I am committed to delivering for them."
