Austin City Council votes for new stadium to bring MLS team

By Jim Vertuno The Associated Press

6 years ago

In this Oct. 31, 2017, file photo, Columbus Crew fans show their support for the team before the start of their MLS Eastern Conference semifinal soccer match against New York City FC in Columbus, Ohio. (AP Photo/Jay LaPrete, File)

Columbus Crew defender Jonathan Mensah, center, is congratulated by teammates after scoring a goal against the New York Red Bulls during the first half of an MLS soccer match on Saturday, July 28, 2018, in Harrison, N.J. The Columbus Crew defeated the Red Bulls 3-2. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

Columbus Crews’ Patrick Mullins (32) celebrates scoring a goal with Crew forward Gyasi Zerdes (11) during the first half of an MLS soccer match against the New York Red Bulls on Saturday, July 28, 2018, in Harrison, N.J. The Columbus Crew defeated the Red Bulls 3-2. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

Columbus Crews’ Jonathan Mensah, right, celebrates scoring a goal against the New York Red Bulls with Crews’ Artur (7) during the first half of an MLS soccer match on Saturday, July 28, 2018, in Harrison, N.J. The Columbus Crew defeated the Red Bulls 3-2. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

AUSTIN, Texas — The Austin City Council has voted to move ahead with a plan for a new, privately funded stadium on city land sought by the owner of Major League Soccer’s Columbus Crew for a move to Texas.

Crew owner Anthony Precourt has been courting Austin for a potential move since late 2017 and has sought a deal to build a 20,000-seat stadium on 24 acres of city property in time for the 2021 MLS season. Austin is the largest metropolitan area in the country without a major league sports franchise.

Precourt bought the Crew in 2013, and a move would uproot a bedrock MLS franchise. The 7-4 council vote Wednesday allows city staff to “negotiate and execute” a stadium plan with Precourt Sports Ventures. It was seen as the crucial vote in moving the team.

Ohio officials have sued to try to block the move. Crew fan groups have also rallied in hopes of keeping their team in Ohio.