San Francisco bets on new pro soccer team to boost Kezar Stadium
Mayor Daniel Lurie has struck a deal designating San Francisco's historic Kezar Stadium as the home field for a new men's professional soccer team: Golden City Football Club.
State of play: As part of the agreement finalized Wednesday, Golden City FC— backed by private investors — will invest $10 million in stadium upgrades for pro and public use, the venue's largest cash infusion in decades.
What they're saying:"This investment is truly an investment in the people of San Francisco," Lurie said in a statement.
"San Francisco's vibrant culture, rich sports history and enthusiastic fan base make it an ideal home for an independent club," added Charles Altchek, president of MLS Next Pro and executive vice president of Major League Soccer.
Zoom in: The renovations include new bleachers, a sound system, natural grass field, irrigation system and high-definition scoreboard.
The venue will also undergo various ADA accessibility, press box and concessions upgrades.
Friction point: The deal has sparked concern from supporters of the community-run San Francisco City FC — which has played at Kezar for decades — that it could sideline the team.
The big picture: Golden City FC is the second pro team introduced under Lurie, following this year's debut of the Golden State Valkyries. His administration is betting on sports and entertainment to help revive local neighborhoods.
Between the lines: Golden City FC will be permitted to use the stadium for home games and practices for 15 years — with three optional five-year extensions — and granted use of other city-owned fields for training.
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San Francisco Chronicle
12 hours ago
- San Francisco Chronicle
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