TAMPA, Fla. – The United Soccer League (USL) is excited to announce the City of Modesto has been identified as a prime location in California’s Central Valley for professional soccer. Following Tuesday night’s City Council approval of a Letter of Intent (LOI), the City and USL will enter exclusive negotiations over the next year to explore the possibility of bringing both men’s and women’s professional soccer teams to Modesto and the surrounding region.

During the negotiation period, the City will evaluate the viability of supporting soccer teams and evaluate opportunities to enhance entertainment options for the community. This initial phase of discussion will address various factors, including funding and the location of a stadium with an entertainment district, which has yet to be determined.

“We are incredibly excited about the potential opportunity to bring both USL men’s and women’s teams to Modesto,” says Justin Papadakis, USL Deputy Chief Executive Officer & Chief Real Estate Officer. “The City has a rich soccer culture and a passionate community that aligns with the USL’s vision of growing the sport at all levels. We are committed to working closely with the City of Modesto to explore how we can contribute to the community’s vibrant future through professional soccer. We believe this partnership can elevate Modesto’s sports landscape, provide new entertainment options, and drive significant economic and community benefits.”

The USL was founded in 1986 and is the largest and fastest-growing professional and pre-professional soccer organization in the country. Since 2012, the league has significantly grown from 11 clubs to 44 professional clubs and more than 150 pre-professional clubs, spanning 42 states, in over 200 U.S. markets and featuring 20,000 players.

Modesto could be next in line to be part of one of the most widely accessible soccer leagues in the United States.

“As a longtime resident of Modesto, I am always cheering for our city,” says Mayor Sue Zwahlen. “Whether you’re a soccer fanatic, an athlete, a sports spectator, or someone looking for a local event to take your family to, we’re excited for this opportunity to score a goal with the USL and give residents something to cheer for too.”

The City of Modesto and the USL will be hosting a press conference on September 12, 2024, to share this news with the community.