The Dallas Burn history begins with the club’s founding in 1995 as one of Major League Soccer’s original teams. Known for its fiery identity, Dallas Burn soccer quickly captured fans’ attention with dynamic performances. Over time, the team evolved into FC Dallas Burn, marking a significant chapter in American professional soccer.
Established
1995
City
Dallas
League History
1996 – Present / Major League Soccer
Team History
2005 – Present / FC Dallas
1995 – 2004 / Dallas Burn
Nickname
Burn - For sports fans in Dallas, the name “Burn” has been synonymous with soccer since 1996. But what is the origin of this nickname? How did it become associated with Major League Soccer's (MLS) team from Dallas?
Dallas Burn Origin
The story begins in 1995 when Lamar Hunt, owner of the NFL's Kansas City Chiefs and founder of MLS, was looking for a new name for his expansion franchise. He wanted something unique to Texas while also conveying a sense of energy and excitement. After considering several options, he eventually settled on “Dallas Burn” – an homage to Texas' cowboy culture and its hot climate!
The moniker quickly caught on among local fans who embraced their fiery new identity, which continues today through chants like "burn 'em" at home games. And although there have been some changes over time - including a rebranding effort that resulted in FC Dallas replacing Burn as the official team name - supporters still proudly wear their red-and-black jerseys bearing "Burn" across their chests whenever they cheer on their beloved club!
In conclusion, Lamar Hunt had incredible foresight when choosing "Dallas Burn" back in 1995 – not only does it pay tribute to Texas culture, but it also serves as an inspiring reminder about how passion can fuel success both on and off the field!
Championship
MLS Cups 0
Stadium
2005 – Present / Toyota Stadium
2003 / Dragon Stadium
1996 – 2002, 2004 – 2005 / Cotton Bowl
Owner
2006 – Present / Clark Hunt
2001 – 2006 / Lamar Hunt
1995 – 2001 / Major League Soccer
- 1996
- 1997
- 1999
- 2000
- 2004
-
Dallas Burn Team Formation
Dallas was awarded a Major League Soccer franchise on June 6, 1995, the same day as teams were awarded to Kansas City and Colorado. The team was given its name for the burning in the Texan oilfields and the state’s hot weather. On October 17, former Mexico international Hugo Sánchez was designated to the team as their first player. Initially ... -
Dallas Burn wins its first trophy, the U.S. Open Cup
In 1997: Dallas Burn wins its first and only trophy, the U.S. Open Cup, by beating D.C. United 5–3 on penalties after a 0–0 draw in the final. The club also finishes third in the Western Conference and qualifies for the playoffs, but loses to Colorado Rapids in the conference semifinals. -
Jason Kreis – The club’s all-time leading scorer
Jason Kreis: The club’s all-time leading scorer with 91 goals and 65 assists in 247 games from 1996 to 2004. He was also the first player in MLS history to reach 100 career points and was named the league MVP in 1999. He won the U.S. Open Cup with the Burn in 1997 and was a three-time MLS All-Star and ... -
Dallas participated in the CONCACAF Champions’ Cup for the second time
In 2000: Dallas Burn finishes fourth in the Central Division and qualifies for the playoffs, but loses to Chicago Fire in the quarterfinals. The club also participates in the CONCACAF Champions’ Cup for the second time, reaching the semifinals before losing to Los Angeles Galaxy. -
Last Season as Dallas Burn
In 2004: Dallas Burn finishes fifth in the Western Conference and misses the playoffs again. The club also participates in the U.S. Open Cup, reaching the semifinals before losing to Kansas City Wizards. At the end of the season, the club announces it will change its name to FC Dallas and move to a new soccer-specific stadium in Frisco, Texas.
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Dallas Burn History
The Dallas Burn history began when the club joined Major League Soccer as one of its ten founding teams in 1996. Known today as FC Dallas Burn, the team quickly became one of the most competitive sides in the league. Throughout its early years, Dallas Burn soccer captured fans’ attention with its passionate play and dedication to developing local talent.
In 1997, the Dallas Burn made their first playoff appearance and celebrated their first major success by winning the U.S. Open Cup, defeating D.C. United 2–1. The victory marked the beginning of a strong legacy that would continue for decades. The team also earned three Supporters’ Shields in 1997, 2006, and 2007—proving its dominance during regular-season play and consistency across multiple campaigns.
During the mid-2000s, Dallas Burn soccer enjoyed one of its strongest eras under coach Schellas Hyndman. Between 2008 and 2012, Hyndman guided the team to four consecutive playoff appearances and recorded 65 wins out of 104 games. His leadership helped the FC Dallas Burn establish a reputation as one of MLS’s most stable and determined clubs.
Dallas Achievements
In 2016, the club lifted another U.S. Open Cup title, again defeating D.C. United 2–1. This victory reaffirmed the team’s resilience and commitment to success. The Burn’s transformation into FC Dallas Burn also marked a shift in identity, highlighting its connection to youth development through the academy system—one of the best in North America.
Today, the Dallas Burn history continues to evolve under strong leadership and a focus on homegrown talent. The team remains competitive, consistently earning playoff spots and pushing toward championship contention. With passionate fans and a clear vision for the future, FC Dallas Burn stands as a proud symbol of Texas soccer excellence and Major League Soccer tradition.
Sports Fan Products
Retired Number
*Blue is this team’s history