Beyond that, the rest is a mystery. What will be the new team’s name? Which players will be on it? What colors will they wear? Where will they play temporarily until construction of their new stadium is complete, and where will that stadium be?
“Soccer is one of few sports that is gaining momentum right now and gaining viewership.” – Eugene Ramirez, director of communications, City of Miami
And the biggest mystery of all: Since the last Miami team, the Miami Fusion, lasted only four seasons, from 1998 to 2001, before folding due to a lack of fan interest, what are the new team’s chances for success? All these imponderables have not lessened Miami soccer fans’ wild excitement about having their very own MLS team. But will unbridled enthusiasm be enough? At the official announcement ceremonies at Miami’s Adrienne Arsht Center, Beckham said: “Our mission to bring an MLS club to Miami is now complete, and we are deeply satisfied, grateful and excited.” Miami Mayor Francis X. Suarez added: “Miami is one of North America’s largest markets, and we are a community that is diverse and passionate about soccer. This is an historic moment for our city.” Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez talked about the significance of the achievement. “Miami celebrates the culmination of years of hard work that have resulted today in the birth of a club in North America’s top-flight soccer league for our vibrant and diverse
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THE BOCA RATON OBSERVER MAY 2018