Kevin Payne Cause of Death

Kevin Payne, a former Major League Soccer executive who was inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 2021, died from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in Charleston, South Carolina, on December 25, 2022, at the age of 69

Payne’s death was confirmed by US Soccer, MLS, and D.C. United, which won four MLS titles and two US Open Cups during his tenure.

“He will always be remembered as a dedicated champion of our club, MLS, our community and soccer in the U.S.,” D.C. United’s statement said.

MLS Commissioner Don Garber called Payne “instrumental in the formation of the League” and that he had “helped build D.C. United into the first MLS dynasty.”

“Kevin leaves a legacy not only of success in business and sports, but he will also be remembered for his strong moral compass, his kindness, and his devotion to his friends and family,” Garber said in a statement. “His passing will be deeply felt by everyone at MLS and throughout the entire soccer community.”

We are saddened to share the news that our founding president and general manager Kevin Payne has passed away.

He will always be remembered as a dedicated champion of our club, MLS, our community and soccer in the U.S. Our deepest condolences go out to his family. 🖤❤️ pic.twitter.com/qpeogaqKgj

— D.C. United (@dcunited) December 25, 2022

Kevin Payne served as president and general manager of D.C. United from 1994 to 2001, and then as president and CEO from 2004 to 2012.

He was also the president of Toronto FC from 2012 to 2013, a member of the Major League Soccer Board of Governors for 18 years, and the executive director and CEO of US Club Soccer from 2015 to 2021.