Rio Grande Valley FC, a team in the USL Championship, has ceased all soccer and business operations, ending an eight-year relationship with the United Soccer League. This decision makes them the second USLC team from 2023 not to return, following the San Diego Loyal. The team used to be affiliated with the Houston Dynamo. The announcement has sparked criticism from soccer fans and pundits, with some expressing disappointment in the MLS for not supporting the game in the country. Additionally, the impact on the local community is noted, as the stadium where RGV FC played has been tagged as one of the homes of UTRGV football when they start up in FCS.
"It's time for U.S. Soccer to seriously consider stripping MLS of it's Division 1 status. ... you cannot be a Division 1 league if you don't want to compete." ๐ฏ (via @SebiSalazarFUT) https://t.co/DkzKKjxad1
Congratulations @ussoccer and @MLS, you killed Rio Grande Valley and every other soccer team/league that has folded since 1996. I hope youโre happy. https://t.co/mcn5pAKvl8
This absolutely sucks for soccer fans in the Rio Grande Valley, but let me throw some college football context in this for y'all. RGV FC plays in HEB Stadium in Edinburg, TX, which has been tagged as one of the homes of UTRGV football when they start up in FCS. https://t.co/dY78b7ge4h
I wonโt be watching the MLS next year because of this. So much more compelling soccer available already. But if MLS wonโt support the game in this country, then Iโll ignore MLS. https://t.co/FUOQhewXMm
Rio Grande Valley (@RGVFC) of the USL Championship has ceased operations, the league announced. Second USLC team from 2023 not to return along with the San Diego Loyal. RGV used to be a Houston Dynamo affiliate.
Rio Grande Valley FC announced today the decision to cease all soccer and business operations effective immediately. Golden Grape Entertainment and the United Soccer League end business relations after eight years. Click to read our official statement ๐ https://t.co/HyWpN5kvHY https://t.co/deOgyVCqIA