MLS and referees reach 7-year labor deal, ending 37-day lockout that led to replacement officials

NEW YORK — Major League Soccer and its referee announced a seven-year labor contract, ending a 37-day lockout that led to the use of replacement officials. Match officials will average a 28.36% increase this year, followed by hikes of 3% in 2025, 6% in 2026, 3% each in 2027 and 2029, and 4% apiece in 2029 and 2030, according to Peter Manikowski, president of the Professional Soccer Referees Association. He said a top-scale referee will earn a minimum $200,000 in 2028. The Professional Referee Organization, which supplies match officials to MLS, the NWSL and some lower-tier leagues, locked out officials on Feb. 18

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