FC Cincinnati

FC Cincinnati is a professional soccer club based in Cincinnati, Ohio, competing in Major League Soccer's Eastern Conference. The club's journey began in 2015 when it was announced as a United Soccer League expansion team, playing its first season in 2016. After three successful years in the USL, the club's ownership group, led by Carl Lindner III and co-CEO Jeff Berding, was awarded an MLS franchise in May 2018. The team made its MLS debut on March 2, 2019, marking a significant step for soccer in the region.

Under general manager Chris Albright, FC Cincinnati has built a competitive roster while cultivating one of the most passionate fan bases in American soccer. The club plays its home matches at TQL Stadium, a soccer-specific venue that opened in 2021 and has hosted international matches and major events. The team's colors, orange and blue, reflect the city's industrial heritage and the energy of its supporters, known for creating an electric atmosphere on matchdays.

The club's motto, #AllForCincy, captures its community-driven identity. With a dedicated following on social media and a clear vision for growth, FC Cincinnati continues to establish itself as a rising force in the Eastern Conference. [edit]

FC Cincinnati's roots go back to 2015, when the club was announced as a USL expansion team. The early years at Nippert Stadium on the University of Cincinnati campus were marked by strong attendance and a fervent fanbase, which helped propel the club into MLS in 2019. The transition to the top flight wasn't smooth; the team struggled in its first few seasons, finishing near the bottom of the Eastern Conference.

The turning point came with the arrival of head coach Pat Noonan in 2022. Noonan, a former MLS player and assistant coach, instilled a disciplined, attacking style. In 2023, the club captured its first major trophy, the MLS Supporters' Shield, awarded for the best regular-season record. That campaign featured a league-leading 20 wins and a goal differential that showcased the team's balance.

The club's early MLS years also saw a revolving door of coaches, including Alan Koch, Yoann Damet (twice as interim), Ron Jans, Jaap Stam, and Tyrone Marshall. Each brought a different approach, but it was Noonan who finally unlocked the team's potential. Off the pitch, the move to TQL Stadium in 2021 gave the club a modern home, and the venue quickly became known for its intimidating atmosphere. [edit]