MLS
NFL's Minnesota Vikings owner to acquire MLS club Orlando City
The owners of the Major League Soccer franchise confirmed on Wednesday that they are selling the team to the Wilf family, who own the NFL’s Minnesota Vikings.
It is official! The owner of MLS franchise Orlando City, Flavio da Silva, announced on Wednesday that he “is in advanced negotiations with the Wilf family to purchase the MLS side, the Orlando Pride of the NWSL and our related assets.” The Wilf family already own the Minnesota Vikings, a team in the National Football League (NFL).
End of an eight year tenure at Orlando City
“I am confident the Wilf family will continue to push Orlando City SC to new heights and lead the club into this next phase, both on and off the field. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank you, the Orlando City SC family, for being part of my journey and for embracing our club as such an integral part of our community,” da Silva said in a release.
Flavio da Silva acquired the Major League Franchise in 2013 and has brought world class players like Kaká and Nani in the past, and this season he made possible the signing of Alexandre Pato. The negotiations are still ongoing, but very advanced, and the sale is expected to be finalized in the next few months.
Statement from the Wilf family
"The Wilf family is excited to become stewards of the Orlando City Soccer Club of MLS and the Orlando Pride of the NWSL. Among our goals are to build championship soccer clubs for the passionate and loyal soccer fans of the region, provide a best-in-class fan experience, and use our platform for positive impact in the Orlando community.
"We are optimistic that our acquisition will be finalized after the customary closing process is completed, and we look forward to making an official announcement in the near future."