FCB Miami: Team could start in 2010

author: Greg Lalas
source: Goal
date: 11 February 2009
editing: fcbtransfers.blogspot.com





MLS commissioner Don Garber confirmed on Wednesday what has long been rumored about the Miami expansion team, which is affiliated with Catalan giants Barcelona: they will begin play in 2010, if their bid is accepted.

"Barcelona and Miami, in partnership with Bolivian-American businessman Marcelo Claure, are focused on 2010," he said today at a press event in Columbus, Ojio. "If Miami gets a franchise, they’ll be starting in the 2010 season."

The Barcelona/Miami bid was submitted in December as part of the league's planned expansion for 2011. Other cities in the running include Portland, St. Louis, Vancouver, Montreal, Ottawa, and Atlanta. Montreal and Atlanta have since dropped their bids. The proposed Miami franchise, according to Garber, would be the only one to receive the special dispensation to move up its debut by a year, to 2010.

An announcement on the two winning bids is due next month, around the time with the 2009 MLS season kicks off on March 19. The favorites currently are Miami, Vancouver, and Portland.

read the full and original article here


Read more:
FCB Miami: A critical view on Barcelona's bid
FCB Miami: Azkargorta to become sports director
FCB Miami: Obstacles for Barcelona's MLS bid