According to FC Dallas president Dan Hunt, the entire league nearly folded during the 2001 offseason.
The Miami Fusion ceased operations after only four years of existence due to low attendance and an unfavorable stadium deal.
Additionally, the league eliminated the Central Division and returned to the original two-conference alignment.
Additionally, due to renovations at Soldier Field, the Chicago Fire played at Cardinal Stadium in the western suburb of Naperville.
After three previous losses in the final, the Los Angeles Galaxy won their first MLS Cup with a victory over the New England Revolution.