By CapRadio Staff
After years of waiting, anticipation and even a few letdowns, Sacramento appears poised to land a professional Major League Soccer franchise.
On Wednesday, the Republic FC, which is the city’s minor-league team, revealed that there will be a “major soccer announcement” on Monday with Mayor Darrell Steinberg and some “special guests.”
Rumors have swirled this summer that, after five years of trying, the city will finally secure a pro franchise. And the MLS typically announces new expansion teams by holding celebrations in the new cities.
Ron Burkle — the billionaire investor who injected new life into the Republic’s bid for a pro franchise earlier this year — will also attend Monday’s event, according to the press release.
The Monday morning gathering will be held at The Bank, a downtown food hall and bar on J Street, and is invitation only. But the MLS usually holds “fan celebrations” to commemorate the arrival of a new expansion team.
It’s been a long journey for the Republic FC’s effort to turn pro, including several moments when Sacramento was skipped over for other expansion cities.
Earlier this year, after Burkle joined the Republic as lead investor, the city of Sacramento approved a $250 million soccer stadium deal for the downtown railyards, which included a $33 million public contribution of land, infrastructure and tax breaks.
The team has also planned a block party Monday at the Capitol Mall starting at 4 p.m.
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