Miami Pro-Soccer Team Debuts at FIU – NBC 6 South Florida

While David Beckham’s Miami stadium struggles continue, a group of Italian investors jump ahead of Beckham dream project to launch their very own professional soccer club right here in Miami.

International media magnate Riccardo Silva and former Italian soccer star, Paolo Maldini have joined forces and are set to launch Miami FC next April 9 at FIU Stadium.

“As Miami moves forward in the world of business and arts, we feel that it’s a good time to also take a step further in the world of sports and soccer.” Silva said. “Soccer is the fastest growing professional sport in the USA, and Miami is a dynamic and multi-cultural city that is passionate for sports and has been longing for a marquee soccer franchise.”

As the Magic City’s sole soccer club, Miami FC’s joins the North American Soccer League (NASL) as their 12th professional soccer club and play their inaugural home opener against the Tampa Bay Rowdies.

“Our home opener is something we have all been looking forward to since the start of Miami FC,” said Alessandro Nesta, Miami FC, Head Coach. “The Rowdies have done a great job in signing new players and we see them as one of the strongest teams in the league.”

Nesta who has been a South Florida resident for 10 years has built a team that includes a roster of world-renowned soccer players including Wilson Palacios, Dario Cvitanich and Matuzalem Francelino Da Silva including a couple of South Florida natives.

“I’m proud and excited to be part of this venture. I strongly believe in the growth of soccer in the USA, and this is the perfect project to develop a top-class soccer team in one of the most important cities in the world,” said Maldini.

The Club’s mission to connect with Miami’s communities through the sport of soccer has also allowed them to promote social-driven initiatives with the Play for Change Foundation to help provide opportunities for children from disadvantage homes.

“Play for Change shares our vision of empowering our community’s youth through soccer,” said Cesar Velasco, Miami FC general manager. “Working together to achieve this goal was a natural decision. Miami FC is a team that first and foremost belongs to the community.”

The first Miami FC game against the Tampa Bay Rowdies will include a special performance by international reggaeton artist from Colombia, Maluma.

It all starts at 8 p.m. Saturday, April 9 at FIU Stadium with ticket prices set at $10 for adults and $1 for children.