Stephen Arnold Music (SAM), The World Leader in Sonic Branding®, provided dynamic sonic branding and music production for the 2025 MLS Cup Final won by Inter Miami CF in a historic clash with Vancouver Whitecaps FC. The championship match was played on Saturday, December 6, at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida and broadcast globally on FOX and Apple TV. SAM worked in collaboration with MLS Senior Manager, Operations Grace Leonard.
This year’s final was especially exciting as it pitted Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi—widely regarded as the Greatest Of All Time—against Vancouver’s German star Thomas Müller.
For the Cup Final, SAM delivered tracks from The Vault – SAM’s production music library – supporting the pre-game intro video, screened live in-stadium, and the post-game trophy ceremony, appearing both in-stadium and on broadcast. For each track, SAM provided stems and custom sub-mixes, giving MLS a comprehensive set of audio assets to shape their creative vision. To get fans hyped, music for the intro video featured a dramatic, trailer-esque sound with orchestral and synthesized instrumentation, and heart-pounding percussion. The inspirational theme used while Messi and company hoisted the cup was based on a hybrid orchestral-meets-hip-hop track reflecting MLS’s high-energy brand and the momentous occasion.
“For U.S. soccer fans, the MLS Cup Final is one of the most anticipated and emotional sports events of the year, especially when Lionel Messi is involved” says Whitney Arnold, SAM President of Music Services. “Collaborating with MLS’s incredible creative team allowed us to select music that captured the intensity and pride surrounding this matchup, elevating the experience for fans in the stadium as well as those watching at home.”
SAM also provided custom music for the MLS Eastern Conference Final one week prior, where Inter Miami CF defeated New York City FC. SAM’s music scored the post-game celebration with a trophy walkout from tennis legend Carlos Alcaraz – and later Inter Miami’s star-studded team raising the trophy before Miami’s jubilant supporters.
The project adds to SAM’s legacy of producing distinctive sonic branding for major sports networks, franchises, and live events. “Our turnaround on this project was fast, and that’s a challenge we love,” adds Russell Boiarsky, Director/Brand Strategy at SAM. “Our team thrives in the world of sports broadcasting. There’s a unique excitement in helping define a championship atmosphere through sound – and MLS gave us an amazing stage to do exactly that.”
SAM’s previous work in the sports sphere includes collaborations with ESPN, MLB, Golf Channel, NBC, CNN, CBS Sports, TGL Golf, Augusta National, Top Rank Boxing, Seattle Seahawks, Utah Mammoth, Dallas Mavericks, Atlanta Braves, and American Rodeo.
