David Beckham's plan to create a new professional soccer team for Miami is a step closer after the British footballer acquired a plot of land allowing for the construction of a 25,000-seat venue designed by architecture firm,
The Miami Beckham United team, backed by David Beckham himself, received approval from politicians in Miami-Dade county to buy the three-acre parcel of land in Overtown, for $9 million.
In a statement, Miami Beckham United said the land acquisition was a milestone.
"By purchasing the last piece of land needed for our privately-funded stadium, Miami Beckham United (MBU) is achieving another major milestone on the way to Major League Soccer formally awarding Miami a franchise. MBU has assembled a world-class team of partners, presented a vision for building the premier soccer club in the Americas, and assembled the land needed to build our stadium. Now is the time for MLS to move forward in helping us deliver the soccer club that Miami has been waiting for," said a statement from Miami Beckham United.
"Miami is the eighth largest metro area in the U.S., the country’s number one soccer market, and a critical gateway to Latin America and Europe. MLS will only reach its full potential once it fields a team here.
"We appreciate the support of Mayor Gimenez, Commissioner Edmonson and the County Commission, and we look forward to working with the Miami community to bring our vision for the neighborhood to life. Our loyal fans in Miami and around the world have been waiting for this moment for years, and we’re thrilled that we’re getting closer to our kick-off," according to the statement.
Further, Mr Beckham celebrated the news.
“From the beginning of my career in England to today in Miami, my journey has always been driven by my incredible passion for the game,” said Mr Beckham. “Miami is a vibrant, diverse community that thrives on the same type of energy that fuels the international appeal of soccer, and I look forward to a dedicated, long-term partnership with this dynamic city and Major League Soccer. My experience with the Galaxy is what convinced me that I wanted to one day own an MLS team and it is thrilling to now see that dream coming true.”
