State aid said key to soccer franchise

0 Comments | Philadelphia Inquirer, The, November, 2007 | by Mari A. Schaefer Inquirer Staff Writer

WASHINGTON - The Philadelphia area's chances for a pro soccer team hinge on the Pennsylvania legislature's approving a $40 million subsidy in the coming weeks, or else St. Louis is likely to get the nod, Major League Soccer commissioner Don Garber said yesterday. At a news conference, Garber said the league hoped to award its 16th franchise this year, with two more in the future.

On Monday, the league awarded its 15th franchise to a Seattle group. "St. Louis is considered a front- runner for future MLS expansion," Garber said, adding that he speaks with the prospective franchise owners almost daily. "We are big believers in St. Louis. It has a rich tradition dating back to the 1950 World Cup." Garber said Philadelphia had a strong ownership group, but lacked sufficient...