Minor league soccer team and stadium planned for Bridgeport

MLS NEXT Pro, the minor league for Major League Soccer (MLS), has announced the men’s soccer team CT United FC is being added to the league and will be based out of a new stadium to be built in Bridgeport.

CT United FC was created by Connecticut Sports Group (CTSG), a company founded by Ridgefield resident and technology entrepreneur André Swanston. Bridgeport’s Planning and Zoning Commission approved CTSG’s proposal for developing a waterfront soccer stadium and mixed-use destination that would include housing, retail and dining, a hotel and outdoor spaces. However, it was unclear whether the stadium would be ready for the team’s start date in MLS NEXT Pro in 2025 or if taxpayer funds would be used for the project.

“I want to welcome MLS NEXT Pro and CT United FC to Bridgeport” said Mayor Joe Ganim at a press conference, “André Swanston and his team should be commended for their hard work in getting to this milestone. Bridgeport is on the move, and today’s announcement helps solidity Bridgeport as the entertainment capital of Connecticut.”

MLS NEXT Pro currently has 29 teams, with 27 affiliated to MLS teams and two independent clubs. CT United FC is the third independent expansion team to be announced by MLS NEXT Pro in the last two months, following Jacksonville and Chattanooga FC in November. Most of the MLS NEXT Pro matches are broadcast on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV.

Photo: An artist’s rendering of the proposed soccer stadium was unveiled during a press conference today. Photo courtesy City of Bridgeport.