Major League Soccer (MLS) is set to announce on May 18th its 30th team, with San Diego considered the frontrunner ahead of Las Vegas. According to media reports, the local Sycuan tribe and Egyptian billionaire Mohamed Mansour’s investment group have put forward a bid of $500 million, more than the previous expansion fee paid by Charlotte FC and St. Louis City SC. San Diego’s Snapdragon Stadium is an ideal venue, as it is a ready-made facility with a capacity of 35,000 seats that also hosts the NWSL team San Diego Wave FC.
However, some questions regarding the stadium remain, such as the requirement for some upgrades, because most matches are played on Saturday nights to comply with the new Apple TV deal. Local reports suggest that some of the stands may need roofing, but this may not be necessary.
One significant advantage San Diego brings to the table is the commitment of the local USL Championship side, San Diego Loyal SC. However, with the increasing number of sports franchises in Las Vegas, MLS’s expansion into Sin City may face some challenges, such as the lack of a soccer-specific stadium. Some ownership groups have contemplated moving their clubs, opening the door for relocation to the City.
According to MLS commissioner Don Garber, expanding beyond the current number of teams may be necessary to cover the geographic scope of both the US and Canada, but there are no present plans to do so. MLS’s 30th team will bring further excitement to fans across the United States and Canada while stimulating the economy with increased tourism and job creation. It is a win-win for everyone, from the fans to the players, organizers, and City officials. With the MLS’s future looking bright, let’s sit back and enjoy the expansion race!
