Mayor Joe Hogsett heading to MLS all-star game to pitch Indianapolis bid

Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett will attend Major League Soccer’s all-star week celebration in Columbus, Ohio, starting Sunday amid a city-led effort to bring a franchise to Indianapolis.

The mayor and his chief of staff, Dan Parker, were both invited to the festivities, the city confirmed. Hogsett announced plans in April to build a soccer stadium downtown, spurning previous plans for a new development for Ersal Ozdemir's minor-league Indy Eleven team.

The week of events in Columbus includes music, interactive fan activities, an MLS all-star skills showcase, an all-star game and a midseason press conference from MLS Commissioner Don Garber.

Indianapolis officials are encouraging local media to apply for credentials and attend the five-day event.

Garber’s press conference is scheduled for Monday. City officials and Indianapolis media will be focused on if and what he says about league expansion and specifically the city’s pitch for an MLS team. The city has a location in mind — the downtown heliport site — but hasn't yet revealed who the owners would be, despite some hints.

IndyStar reporters Brian Haenchen and Dana Hunsinger Benbow will cover the event for IndyStar.

Michael McDaniel is city hall reporter for IndyStar. Follow him on X/Twitter at @themikemcdaniel or email him at mmcdaniel@indystar.com.