Major League Soccer announced in a statement on Friday that due to problems related to the COVID-19 pandemic, Ron Burkle decided not to proceed with the acquisition of an MLS expansion team in Sacramento.
The city was awarded an expansion team in October 2019 and was due to start playing in 2022 before that date was postponed by one year due to the initial impact of the pandemic in 2020. Burkle was the main investor in Sacramento Republic FC, and led his efforts to join MLS.
MLS will work with Mayor Darrell Steinberg to assess possible next steps for the MLS in Sacramento.
Read the full MLS statement below:
Earlier today, Ron Burkle informed the League that based on project problems related to COVID-19, he decided not to proceed with the acquisition of an MLS expansion team in Sacramento.
After working for many years to bring an MLS team to Sacramento, the League continues to believe that it can be a major MLS market. In the coming days, the League will work with Mayor Darrell Steinberg to assess possible next steps for the MLS in Sacramento.
“I want to thank Mayor Steinberg for his continued efforts to bring MLS to Sacramento,” said MLS commissioner Don Garber. “Your commitment to the city and delivery to passionate football fans should make all citizens of Sacramento proud.
“The interest in having a club in the Major Football League has never been greater. And I remain incredibly optimistic about the completion of the expansion plans for our 30th team.”