Will an MLS Team Land in Raleigh or Charlotte, North Carolina?

In recent years, Major League Soccer (MLS) has expanded rapidly, adding new teams across the United States. Two North Carolina cities, Raleigh and Charlotte, have been the focus of much speculation regarding potential MLS expansion. This article explores the current state of these two cities' bids, offering insights into their chances of landing a new MLS franchise.

The Rise of Charlotte

Charlotte, a city with a rich footballing heritage, enjoyed a significant boost in its chances of an MLS franchise after multibillionaire David Tepper purchased the NFL's Carolina Panthers. In the past, Charlotte had been considered a long-shot candidate for an MLS expansion team, but the introduction of Tepper into the city's football landscape has changed the narrative.

Tepper's influence extends beyond the NFL. His involvement with David Beckham and Population Services International, a company known for its real estate investments, has created an environment conducive to a successful MLS stadium development in Charlotte. Furthermore, the city already boasts a high-profile venue, the Allianz Field, which is currently used by the Minnesota United FC and can serve as a suitable home for the potential new franchise. This stadium, with its modern amenities and downtown location, presents an ideal setting for an MLS team.

Raleigh: The Other North Carolina City

While Charlotte is making strides, Raleigh remains a contender for an MLS expansion team. However, the timeline for Raleigh's potential franchise is slightly different from Charlotte's. Given the current expansion plans, Raleigh is more likely to be considered in a future expansion phase, several years down the line.

Raleigh's bid is supported by its vibrant sporting culture and growing population. The city's proximity to Research Triangle Park, a hub for tech and innovation, and its diverse population make it a compelling area for MLS. Additionally, Raleigh has several venues that could serve as potential home grounds, though no one specific venue has been ruled out as the primary choice.

Ohio's Success Story

It's worth noting that Ohio currently hosts two MLS teams, Columbus and Cincinnati. This success story demonstrates that two teams in neighboring states are not uncommon. Therefore, the possible presence of both Raleigh and Charlotte in the MLS would not be unprecedented, provided the cities meet the necessary criteria.

To reiterate, while Charlotte appears to be a more immediate candidate, Raleigh remains a viable option for future expansion. The cities of Raleigh and Charlotte, along with their vibrant communities and growing sporting cultures, remain poised to become the next MLS cities in North Carolina.

For more updates and insights, keep an eye on local sports news and the official MLS website.