Hey sports fans and sun-seekers alike, exciting news is kicking up the dust in our beloved San Diego! You know, the place that already hosts a star-studded lineup of teams such as the San Diego Padres (MLB), San Diego Wave FC (NWSL), San Diego Loyal (USL), and the San Diego Legion (MLR), just to name a few. Well, hold onto your hats because the latest addition to the family is none other than a Major League Soccer team!
Yes, you heard that right. On May 18, the soccer world was all ears when MLS Commissioner Don Garber unveiled that the league’s 30th team will make its debut right here in San Diego in 2025. The potential names floating around are the San Diego Football Club or Football Club of San Diego. No matter what they settle on, I’m sure we’re all ready to cheer them on at their home turf, Snapdragon Stadium, a magnificent 35,000-seat venue located at San Diego State University’s Mission Valley campus.
And if that wasn’t interesting enough, the ownership of the new team brings together quite the mix. Egyptian businessman Mohamed Mansour, San Diego Padres’ star Manny Machado, and the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation, who are making history as the first tribe to co-own a professional soccer team, are all on board.
As Julie Coker, the president and CEO of the San Diego Tourism Authority puts it, “Major League Soccer will draw visitors who will stay in hotels, dine in our restaurants, visit our attractions and support local businesses.” So, let’s roll out the red carpet for these visitors, because this new MLS team is not just about soccer, but also about boosting our local economy, jobs, and tax revenue.
Of course, Snapdragon Stadium is no stranger to sporting excitement. Since its opening in August 2022, it has become a hotbed for sports and entertainment, hosting concerts, festivals, and serving as home to the SDSU Aztecs football, the San Diego Wave FC, and the San Diego Legion.
Mark your calendars, because this summer the stadium will be the battlefield for a high-profile exhibition soccer game between Manchester United and Wrexham AFC on July 25. It’s also hosting the 20th edition of MexTour on June 10, the 2023 World Lacrosse Championships from June 21 to July 1, and the Concacaf Gold Cup on July 12.
And let’s not forget our shining stars, the San Diego Wave women’s professional soccer team, who have been smashing NWSL records left and right, and our local rugby heroes, the San Diego Legion. They both have some thrilling home games lined up at Snapdragon Stadium this season.
Meanwhile, the San Diego Loyal men’s professional soccer team will keep gracing Torero Stadium with their incredible games. And, of course, we can’t forget our San Diego Padres, who after a smashing season, are back to set Petco Park on fire.
And for those who like a little variety in their sports, there’s the DoD Warrior Games, ECNL Girls National Playoffs, and Cal State Games coming up this summer.
For all the sports news and updates in sunny San Diego, remember to check out sandiego.org. Until then, stay sporty, San Diego!
