Toronto FC is expanding its reach in southern Ontario.
The City of Barrie, Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment, MLS NEXT Pro, and Barrie Stadium Group today announced a partnership Tuesday that will bring professional soccer to downtown Barrie, Ont. through the relocation of Toronto FC II, beginning with the 2028-2029 season.
The groups plan to build a 3,500-seat venue for the MLS Next Pro team, which acts as a feeder for the MLS franchise.
Barrie is about 82 kilometres north of TFC’s training ground in north Toronto. The team has been playing home games at York University this year.
“This partnership represents an exciting next chapter for Toronto FC II and our MLS NEXT Pro franchise,” Chris Shewfelt, VP business operations, Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment and lead governor, Toronto FC II, said in a statement. “The City of Barrie and Barrie Stadium Group has demonstrated tremendous ambition, a clear vision for the future, and a deep commitment to growing the game. Together, we are creating an environment that will support player development while bringing professional soccer to downtown Barrie and strengthening the Toronto FC pathway.”
The groups believe the stadium will attract other sports and entertainment events, along with being a location for community programming.
“This is a transformational day for Barrie,” Mayor Alex Nuttall said in a statement. “This investment in our community, alongside Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment and Barrie Stadium Group’s investment in the newly formed Barrie MLS NEXT Pro franchise, will not only allow for professional sports to grow in Barrie, but provide a pivotal community hub for our youth sports to compete and learn in.
“From football to soccer, lacrosse to rugby, this new facility will help grow our youth sports while also making Barrie home to professional and international soccer. This is a great day for Barrie, MLSE, Barrie & Canada Soccer.”
The team’s name, crest, colours and brand will be unveiled at a later date.