Reno’s soccer team faces a year-long wait for its new home

Reno’s upcoming professional soccer team won’t step onto the field until 2028, pushing back its first season by a full year. The delay comes as the stadium and surrounding entertainment district slowly take shape in South Reno. Work begins this fall after permits are approved, but the original 2027 target is now out of reach. The project’s leaders admit the first timeline was tight, even calling it "challenging" in hindsight. A new architect is on board, though no updated stadium designs have been shared yet. Meanwhile, the old car dealership on Kietzke Lane is being cleared away, making room for something completely different. The 6, 000-seat stadium will be a permanent home, not a temporary fix like some other minor league teams use. Plans include better seating angles, improved sightlines, and a roof modeled after a Swedish arena. The team’s name, logo, and colors will be revealed in late June, giving fans their first real glimpse of what’s to come.Behind the scenes, the ownership group is already building connections with local youth soccer clubs instead of launching its own academy. Leaders argue this approach strengthens the soccer community while avoiding competition. Still, the delay isn’t just about the stadium—it’s about getting everything right at once. The team’s roster and coaching staff can assemble quickly, but infrastructure and fan experience need more time. The entertainment district next door will add 21 dining and shopping spots, while a casino and hotel sit a short walk away. The project’s leader says mixing sports with dining and gaming makes the area more dynamic. She also insists the extra year isn’t wasted—it’s necessary to avoid piecemeal approvals down the road. After all, asking the city twice for funding isn’t an option. Community input has shaped the team’s identity from the start. Around 1, 000 locals have already weighed in on the name and logo, proving this isn’t a quick corporate project. Instead, it’s a years-long effort to bring something meaningful to Reno. Supporters argue soccer’s affordability and fast-paced action make it a perfect fit for building local pride.