If Columbus Crew SC are to build a new stadium in their hometown, the club and city won't let MAPFRE Stadium and the legend of dos a cero fade into US soccer history. Per an exclusive report in The Columbus Dispatch, they plan to turn the club's existing venue into a shared-use community sports park where Crew SC would establish their training facilities.
The city of Columbus would fund the transformation, which would include eight indoor basketball courts, a full-size indoor soccer field, at least six outdoor athletic fields, two MLS-level practice fields and additional green space.
“We will adapt and reuse MAPFRE Stadium and transform the site to benefit the entire community,” said Columbus Mayor Andrew J. Ginther, via The Dispatch.
MAPFRE Stadium was the first soccer-specific stadium to be built by an MLS team, opening in 1999. It has hosted MLS All-Star games, MLS Cup finals, a venue for the 2003 Women's World Cup and has been a staple for the US men's national team over the years.
