A bit of expansion news from Major League Soccer as the owner of the Orlando City Soccer Club, Phil Rawlins, revealed that he is in discussions with Major League Soccer and that a Non Disclosure Agreement has been signed.
"They've been following us and they've been watching us," Rawlins said. "They were very complimentary and positive about what we were doing and the success we've had in the last season ... We've signed a non-disclosure agreement with them and we're looking at the business models. We're looking at what the numbers look like to bring MLS soccer to Central Florida."
"I can see us playing in either [a newly-renovated Citrus Bowl or a soccer-specific stadium]," Rawlins said. "The city and the county has $185 million set aside for the refurbishment of the Citrus Bowl and we're in talks with them about that. As long as that money is used wisely and well, then I can see us playing in a refurbished Citrus Bowl."
While Major League Soccer still seems completely focused on New York City for its 20th team, nothing can be ruled out. The league does want a presence in the South East and with the right owners and a possible stadium solution in place, this could really pick up some steam.
Orlando City plays its home games in the Citris Bowl and drew over 11,000 fans to the USL Championship game, on the same night of a UCF football game. This solid local support, coupled with the millions of tourists that visit the area (many of whom come from soccer loving nations) could be a nice little recipe for success.
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