Wayne Rooney’s former team targets $620m stadium overhaul just eight years after opening

Audi Field opened in 2016, but due to the ever-changing realm of soccer in the USA, it’s in need of an update.

The stadium, which is home to the MLS’ DC United and NWSL’s Washington Spirit, is owned by the Government of the District of Columbia.

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Council Chairman Phil Mendelson has brought forward legislation for a proposed $620m expansion of the arena.

The proposed legislation calls for adding a new roof, 8,000 additional seats to the stadium, increasing total capacity to 28,000 fans.

It will also include a development of a new housing complex, requiring United to build 467 new homes with 148 designed to be affordable, and 122 reserved for senior citicizens.

The proposal indicates that the district would contribute around $300 million towards the project, with remaining costs covered through other funding services.

“It’s actually not a new proposal,” Mendelson told FOX 5 DC.

“The concept is, [DC United] wants a roof because that’s where Major League Soccer is going.

“They want to increase the size of the stadium, and to pay for that and I think some other upgrades, the city would front them the money and would be paid back by the revenues made by the stadium.”

The District have already committed to other major venues within the area.

They have committed $1bn to the Washington Commanders new domed stadium which is targeted for a 2030 opening.

Additionally, they contributed $500 million to Capital One Arena, home of the NBA‘s Washington Wizards, and WNBA‘s Capitals.

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“We’ve been talking for years about how we would diversify our economy,” Mendelson continued.

“I would not have thought that sports is the first place we go, but the [MLB’s] Nationals are very popular.

“Everyone is very excited about the Commanders. Soccer is actually a growing sport in this country.

“Again, what we’re looking up is a concept where the stadium pays for the improvements. And that’s what this legislation is about.”

The council are set to consider the legislation in the fall.

DC United was one of the inaugural franchises when the MLS launched in 1996. They have won four MLS Cups.

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It played at Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium until 2017 when it moved to Audi Field.

In its first season at the new venue, it welcomed Manchester United and England legend Wayne Rooney, following his stint at Everton.

Rooney ended his time in MLS with 23 goals and 15 assists in 48 regular-season appearances.

Rooney had a total of 25 goals in 52 appearances (all competitions) for DC United.

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