USA Gymnastics named Major League Soccer executive Kyle Albrecht as its next president and CEO Tuesday, placing him in charge of leading a national governing body marked by both global dominance and scandal into the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

Albrecht will lead a strategic plan to raise USA Gymnastics and the American sport’s profile leading up to the 2028 Games that includes “strengthening USA Gymnastics as a global leader in athletic achievement and culture, expanding participation, reinvesting in the gymnastics community, and advancing commercial and operational excellence.”

“USA Gymnastics provides an amazing opportunity to further elevate one of the most iconic sports in American culture,” Albrecht said in a statement. “It’s an honor to lead this organization into its next chapter — driving growth that advances athlete success, strengthens our community, and builds on the culture of safety and wellness that has defined the past six years. I look forward to working with the board, staff, and key stakeholders to continue elevating the sport at every level.”

Albrecht replaces Li Li Leung who led the NGB out of the shadows of the Larry Nassar and Don Peters sex abuse scandals. Leung will continue to lead the organization through December 31. Albrecht takes over on January 1.

Albrecht, who played soccer at George Washington University, joined MLS in 2019, moving up to vice president of MLS GO, the league’s grassroots and youth program, in 2023. He was named general manager of MLS NEXT, the the league’s youth development program, last November.

“We are incredibly excited to welcome Kyle as our next President and CEO,” USA Gymnastics Chair Kathryn Carson said. “He has the leadership experience essential to continue USA Gymnastics’ growth, and his fresh perspective will provide new opportunities and leadership as we look to the LA 2028 Olympic Games as a catalyst for the sport of gymnastics and its athletes.”

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