RENTON, Wash. – Seattle Sounders FC and Seattle Seahawks announced that the Sounders’ business operations will become independent beginning April 30, 2014. The teams have shared business operations since Sounders FC was admitted to Major League Soccer in 2007.

“This is a sensible business decision for our franchise,” said Sounders FC Majority Owner Joe Roth. “Our vision is to grow our business to unprecedented levels both domestically and abroad. This move will position us to achieve that goal. The Seahawks have been vital to our early success and we thank Paul Allen and his organization for their support.”

Sounders FC began play in March of 2009 and have led MLS in average attendance each season. The franchise currently has 34,500 full season equivalent season-ticket memberships. At the end of the 2013 season, Seattle ranked 22nd in the world in attendance average.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for Joe, Adrian and Drew,” said Seahawks President Peter McLoughlin. “The Sounders will continue to be part of our family as we share CenturyLink Field and will work together on mutually beneficial projects.”

The Sounders will move business operations and full-time business staff to the Pioneer Square neighborhood in downtown Seattle. The team operations and practice facilities will remain at Starfire Sports Complex in Tukwila.

“This move further demonstrates our commitment to our passionate fan base and our staff,” said Sounders FC Owner and General Manager Adrian Hanauer. “We’re excited to plant our flag in Pioneer Square and continue to grow our brand under the banner of Sounders 2.0.”