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Staff reports

 

CHARLOTTE–The world of soccer has grown immensely in the last decade. More children are starting the sport at a young age in hopes of becoming part of this growing phenomenon. 

 

Major League Soccer (MLS) announced Tuesday Charlotte would receive a new expansion team, to begin play in 2021. The new franchise would be the 30th team in the league. 

 

Over the next three years, MSL plans to add six new teams to the league. Along with Charlotte are teams in Miami, Nashville, Texas, Sacramento and St. Louis. 

 

David Tepper, owner of the new franchise, purchased the Carolina Panthers in 2018. Tepper has been at the forefront of bringing professional soccer to Charlotte for some time. Bank of American Stadium, the home of the Panthers and soon to be for the soccer franchise, has hosted numerous soccer games over the years. Most recently, the 2019 MLS college showcase was played there. 

 

Soccer is the most popular sport worldwide, attracting huge crowds wherever games are played. In June of this year, the Concacaf Gold Cup doubleheader played at Bank of America Stadium drew nearly 60,000 fans for games featuring Mexico, Canada, Cuba and Martinique.