Coronavirus pandemic has caused Major League Soccer to delay its expansion plans. The league announced on Friday that Charlotte, Sacramento Republic FC, and St. Louis will play their inaugural seasons one year later than it was originally planned.
The new timeline will see Charlotte make its MLS debut in 2022 instead of 2021. Sacramento and St. Louis will enter the league in 2023 as opposed to previously established 2022 dates.
FC Austin, however, will have its inaugural season next year as planned.
The suggestion for the delay came from MLS, but the three teams on the receiving end of the decision accepted the league plan.
The ongoing health crisis reportedly affected Charlotte, Sacramento Republic FC, and St. Louis’ operations and business. This includes the delays in stadium renovations and construction.
According to MLS commissioner Don Garber, the extra year will allow expansion teams to put themselves in a position to be successful.
“We have always taken a thoughtful and strategic approach to our expansion planning and have delivered successful launches for every new club,” Garber said in a prepared statement. “It is important for each club to take the necessary time to launch their inaugural MLS seasons the way their fans and communities deserve.”
