Austin Anthem is pleased about the agreement negotiated by Major League Soccer, Precourt Sports Ventures, and the Haslam/Edwards families to keep the Crew in Columbus, Ohio. Completion of the sale will ensure a positive outcome for Columbus. For 15 months, the fate of soccer in Columbus has been entwined with Austin’s. Today’s announcement should allow PSV and MLS to formally introduce Austin FC as the league’s next franchise — independent of any further developments in Columbus. We’re excited for the opportunity to be a Major League Soccer city with a new club. We are also happy for the fans in Columbus who get to keep their team.

We look forward to a formal announcement and celebration of Austin FC early in 2019. Austin Anthem continues to prepare for our MLS debut in 2021 (or possibly 2020).