Kickback raises $1M to build an MLS media network
What's the deal? Kickback Soccer MediaDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom → has closed a $1 million seed round and launched the Soccerwise Media Collective, a national network that funds independent outlets covering MLS clubs and distributes leaguewide content through their podcasts. The financing valued the company at $5 million.
Who backed it? Investors include MLS player Alejandro BedoyaDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, South African film producer and IOC member Anant Singh, and Soccer House owner and former US Soccer staffer Garret Drexler, alongside several undisclosed individuals. The round was raised through simple agreements for future equity, or SAFEs — Kickback's first outside funding.
What's the endgame? The collective centres on the Soccerwise MLS Minute, a weekly audio segment produced by Kickback, sponsored by Continental TireDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, that each outlet inserts into its full-length podcast. Seven founding members are on board, including Sounder at HeartDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, Happy Foot Sad Foot (LAFC), and Five Stripe Final (Atlanta United).
Why now? Co-founder and chief executive officer John Parker said the platform must reach fans where they already consume MLS coverage. "In order to do that in 2026, we need to connect with fans where they consume MLS media right now, which is largely at the local level," he said.
Parker said Kickback will pay each partner monthly without taking an equity stake, but did not disclose the amount, duration, or the terms of Continental's sponsorship.
What's next? Kickback plans an equity crowdfunding round for fans in October, and is considering Wefunder to let supporters make smaller investments in exchange for equity.
The signal: Rather than build a single national brand, Kickback is betting that the fragmentation of MLS coverage is an opportunity — subsidising local outlets to fill a gap the company argues exists at both league and club level. It launched last year with its Soccerwise and First Touch brands, and aims to become the platform for MLS, NWSL, and US soccer coverage.
Read more: sportsbusinessjournal.com
Image credit: Generated with Gemini
