Austin FC history reflects the journey of a passionate soccer club that quickly earned recognition in Major League Soccer. Founded in 2018, Austin FC became a symbol of the city’s growing sports culture. The Austin FC team is known for its loyal fanbase, exciting performances, and commitment to developing soccer in Texas.
Established
2019
City
Austin
League History
2021 – Present / Major League Soccer
Team History
2021 – Present / Austin FC
Nickname
Austin FC – As Austin FC prepares to kick off its inaugural season in Major League Soccer, soccer fans across the city eagerly await the announcement of their team’s official nickname. While there has been much speculation and debate over what precisely this name will be, one thing is sure: it will deeply connect to Austin’s unique culture and Austin FC history.
Austin FC Origin
The process for selecting an appropriate nickname began with a survey conducted by Austin FC last year that asked residents about potential names they would like to see associated with their club. The results were then narrowed down by a committee comprised of members from both within and outside of MLS who sought input from various stakeholders, including sponsors, media outlets, supporter groups, and more. After months of deliberation, the final decision was made based on several factors such as availability (in terms of trademarks), originality (to avoid confusion with other teams) as well as cultural relevance (so that it truly reflects the spirit of Austinite).
It's clear that when choosing an identity for their new club in MLS, AustinFC wanted something special – something which speaks directly to all those passionate about soccer in Texas' capital city. With so many possibilities available, it can be challenging to decide on just one! However, if recent reports are anything go by, we could soon find out what exactly this long-awaited moniker will be. Until then, we'll have to wait until further news emerges regarding this exciting development!
Championship
MLS Cups 0
Stadium
2021 - Present / Q2 Stadium
2020 – 2021 / McKalla Place
Owner
2019 - Present / Two Oak Ventures
- 2019
- 2020
- 2021
- 2021
- 2021
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Austin FC Team Formation
In October 2018, an Ohio-based group which includes Jimmy and Dee Haslam, owners of the National Football League’s Cleveland Browns, and Columbus-based physician and businessman Pete Edwards, announced their intentions to acquire the Columbus Crew SC to keep the team from moving. MLS officials stated that if the transfer of the Crew’s operating rights were successful, Austin FC would be ... -
Josh Wolff as first head coach
On January 13, 2020: The Austin Football Club announces Josh Wolff as its first head coach. AUSTIN, Texas– Austin FC, the 27th club in Major League Soccer (MLS) and the first major league team in Austin, announced today that it has reached a multiyear agreement with Josh Wolff to become the Club’s first-ever Head Coach, with an effective start date ... -
Austin FC Home Games at Q2 Stadium
On June 19, 2021: The Austin football club plays its first home match at Q2 Stadium, drawing 0–0 with San Jose Earthquakes. -
First MLC match
On April 17, 2021: The Austin Football Club plays its first MLS match, losing 2–0 to Los Angeles FC. -
Austin Club finishes its inaugural season
On November 7, 2021: The club finishes its inaugural season with a record of 9 wins, 6 draws, and 19 losses, placing second-last in the Western Conference and missing the playoffs.
Austin FC History
Austin FC history began with a bold vision to bring top-tier soccer to the heart of Texas. Founded in 2018 by Anthony Precourt, the club officially joined Major League Soccer (MLS) as an expansion team in 2021. Austin became the first major professional sports franchise based in Austin, quickly establishing a passionate fan base and a strong community presence.
The roots of Austin FC history trace back to October 2018, when Precourt Sports Ventures reached an agreement with the City of Austin to construct a new stadium on city-owned land near McKalla Place in North Austin. This partnership led to the development of Q2 Stadium, a state-of-the-art soccer venue that holds 20,500 fans, with future plans to expand up to 30,000 seats.
In January 2019, Major League Soccer officially awarded the expansion franchise to Austin, marking a historic moment for the city. This made Austin club only the second MLS team in Texas, alongside the Houston Dynamo. The club revealed its crest, colors, and branding that same year, symbolizing Austin’s creativity and energy.
Austin Achievements
As the Austin FC team prepared for its inaugural season in 2021, anticipation across the region grew rapidly. The team made headlines by signing international players and talented young stars, setting the foundation for a competitive start in MLS. The first season saw challenges, but the team quickly gained respect for its attacking style and loyal supporters filling Q2 Stadium every matchday.
By 2022, Austin Football Club showed remarkable progress, finishing second in the Western Conference and reaching the MLS Cup Playoffs for the first time in Austin FC history. The Austin FC team made it all the way to the Western Conference Final, a remarkable feat for such a young club.
Continuing to build on this momentum, Austin Football Club has developed into one of MLS’s most exciting and ambitious clubs. The team’s achievements highlight its commitment to growing soccer in Texas and inspiring a new generation of fans. With its passionate supporters, strong ownership, and competitive spirit, Austin is writing one of the most promising chapters in Austin FC history.
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Retired Number
*Blue is this team’s history