Major League Soccer has appointed Dr. George T. Chiampas as its new Chief Medical Officer, placing one of the country’s most experienced leaders in emergency and sports medicine at the helm of player health and safety across the league.
The announcement was made on March 5, as MLS said Chiampas will lead and refine the league’s overall strategy for player health, performance, and medical safety.
Currently an Assistant Professor and Associate Director of Emergency Medicine and Orthopedic Surgery at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chiampas brings more than two decades of experience spanning clinical care, academic leadership, and sports medicine.
In his new role, MLS says he will help strengthen the league’s medical leadership as it continues to expand and evolve, with a focus on innovation, best practices, and athlete well-being.
Chiampas is widely known in the world of event and sports medicine. Since 2007, he has served as Chief Medical and Safety Officer of the Chicago Marathon, where he has helped shape modern standards in race safety and emergency preparedness. Since 2014, he has also served as Chief Medical Officer for the United States Soccer Federation and currently sits on the medical committees of FIFA and CONCACAF.
His résumé also includes work as a team physician for the Chicago Blackhawks since 2010, consulting work for the National Football League, and his current role as a team physician with the Chicago Bears.
“Dr. Chiampas’ decision to join MLS is another indication of our being a league of choice,” said Nelson Rodriguez, MLS Executive Vice President of Sporting and Matchday. “His experience and expertise in the game and passion for the well-being of our players will accelerate MLS 3.0.”
Board certified in both Emergency Medicine and Sports Medicine, Chiampas has authored more than 40 peer-reviewed publications and also serves as Executive Director of Northwestern Medicine’s Disaster Management and Community Emergency Preparedness Initiative.
He earned his undergraduate degree from Loyola University Chicago and his medical degree from Midwestern University. He completed his residency in Emergency Medicine at Cook County Hospital in Chicago and later completed a fellowship in Sports Medicine at Resurrection Medical Center.
Chiampas succeeds Dr. Margot Putukian, who is stepping down after eight years in the role. MLS credited Putukian with helping guide the league through the COVID-19 pandemic and advancing mental health initiatives aimed at supporting players on and off the field.
“On behalf of MLS, we extend our sincere thanks to Dr. Putukian for her remarkable leadership, compassion, and steady guidance over the course of her tenure,” Rodriguez said. “She has been a trusted voice and a strong advocate for our players, and we are deeply grateful for all she has given to the League.”
Headquartered in New York City, Major League Soccer is marking its 31st season in 2026 and now features 30 clubs across the United States and Canada.
