NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) – Major League Soccer is continuing its expansion into the southeast, awarding Nashville the first of its newest expansion franchises as MLS’ 24th team.
Commissioner Don Garber made the announcement Wednesday at a news conference with Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam, Nashville Mayor Megan Barry and John R. Ingram, head of the group now bringing an MLS team to Nashville.
“Nashville is a rising city with a passionate soccer fan base, a dedicated ownership group and civic leaders that truly believe in this sport,” Garber said in a statement. “Nashville continues its ascent as one of America’s most dynamic communities, with its incredible energy and creativity. For us, that makes it a perfect place for MLS expansion.”
Nashville and Sacramento, California, had been viewed as the favorites for the league’s newest teams, with Cincinnati and Detroit the other finalists. A decision on the second area picked is expected within a few weeks. Atlanta United joined Minnesota United this year as MLS’ latest expansion teams.
Nashville Soccer Holdings, LLC includes Ingram, chairman of Ingram Industries Inc., and the Wilf family, owner of the NFL’s Minnesota Vikings. Ingram said it was a landmark day both for Nashville and the area’s loyal soccer fans who made a strong case for why the league needs to be in Music City.