Carlos Vela

Awards & Honours

Awards Won

Honours

Rankings

Records

Carlos Vela's career is a testament to sustained excellence and adaptability across three continents. He stands as one of the most decorated foreign players in MLS history, holding the record for most goals in a single season with 34 in 2019. His ability to dominate in La Liga and then translate that success to North America is a rare feat. As a key figure in Mexico's national team success, including their 2015 Gold Cup victory, he solidified his status as a national hero. His transition to ownership further cements his legacy as a pioneer in athlete empowerment.

AwardsCarlos Vela has won numerous accolades throughout his illustrious career, including the MLS MVP award and the MLS Golden Boot in 2019. He led Los Angeles FC to their first MLS Cup victory and won the Supporters' Shield twice. At the international level, he secured the CONCACAF Gold Cup with Mexico in 2015. His early promise was recognized with the FIFA U-17 World Cup Golden Boot in 2005. He was also named to the La Liga Team of the Season and received multiple fan awards at Real Sociedad.

Honours & Distinctions

LAFC Club Legend

Los Angeles FC·2026

Officially inducted recognizing his unparalleled contribution to the club's history.

Ownership Stake

Sportico / ESPN·2026

One of the few former players to purchase a minority stake in an MLS franchise immediately upon retirement.

Rankings & Lists

Greatest Foreign Players in MLS History

The Athletic·2025

Top 10 Foreign Players in MLS History

ESPN·2024

Records & Feats

Most Goals in a Single MLS Season

Chart Record·2019

Scored 34 goals in the 2019 MLS regular season, breaking the previous record held by Landon Donovan.

First Mexican Player to Score 30+ Goals in MLS

Career Milestone·2019

Became the first Mexican player to achieve a 30-goal season in Major League Soccer history.