The story of FC Cincinnati history begins with the club’s foundation and its quick rise in FC Cincinnati soccer. Based in FC Cincinnati Ohio, the team has grown from a USL powerhouse to a strong MLS contender. With a loyal fan base and consistent progress, FC Cincinnati continues to shape American soccer history.
Established
2018
City
Cincinnati
League History
2019 – Present / Major League Soccer
Team History
2019 – Present / FC Cincinnati
Nickname
FC Cincinnati – FC Cincinnati is one of the newest Major League Soccer teams, and its nickname has an interesting backstory. The team was founded in 2015 as part of the United Soccer League (USL) and had a name-the-team contest to determine its moniker. After receiving over 5,000 submissions from fans worldwide, FC Cincinnati emerged as a clear favorite among supporters.
FC Cincinnati Origin
The name “FC” stands for Football Club – which is how soccer teams are referred to internationally – while “Cincinnati” was chosen to honor the city it plays in and its passionate fan base. The club also wanted something unique that could be easily recognized across all levels of soccer fandom; hence why they chose such an iconic nickname like FC Cincinnati!
As far back as 2017, when they became part of MLS, FC Cincinnati has been working hard to create a strong identity within their home city by engaging with local charities and hosting various events each season. This grassroots approach has helped them become one of America's most famous clubs, with average attendance topping 25k per game! They have even earned nicknames like "The Orange & Blue" or "FCC."
Overall, it's safe to say that no matter what you call them - whether it be 'Orange & Blue' or 'FCC' - there will always be plenty of reasons why fans love this team: from their exciting style on a pitch play right through off-field activities too!
Championship
MLS Cups 0
Stadium
2019 – Present / Nippert Stadium
Owner
2019 - Present / Carl Lindner III, Chris Lindner, David L. Thompson, Jeff Berding, Scott Farmer, Steve Hightower, George Joseph, Mike Mossel, Jack Wyant, Meg Whitman, Griff Harsh
2018 / Carl Lindner III, Chris Lindner, David L. Thompson, Jeff Berding, Scott Farmer, Steve Hightower, George Joseph, Mike Mossel, Jack Wyant
- 2018
- 2019
- 2019
- 2020
- 2022
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FC Cincinnati Team Formation
The owners of the USL club began negotiations with Major League Soccer over a potential expansion franchise in early 2016, and Cincinnati was announced as one of ten cities that had expressed interest in the slots for teams 25 to 28. MLS Commissioner Don Garber visited Cincinnati in December 2016 to tour Nippert Stadium and meet with city and club ... -
FC Cincinnati plays its first MLS match
On March 2, 2019: FC Cincinnati plays its first MLS match, losing 4–1 to Seattle Sounders FC at CenturyLink Field. -
Cincinnati hires Ron Jans as its new head coach
On August 18, 2019: FC Cincinnati hires Ron Jans as its new head coach after he previously coached in the Netherlands and Belgium -
FC Cincinnati finishes its second MLS season with a record of 4 wins
On November 8, 2020: FC Cincinnati finishes its second MLS season with a record of 4 wins, 4 draws and 15 losses, placing last in the Eastern Conference and the league overall again -
FC Cincinnati opens the 2022 season
On April 9, 2022: FC Cincinnati opens the 2022 season with a thrilling 5–4 win over New York City FC at TQL Stadium.
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
FC Cincinnati History
FC Cincinnati history began in 2015 when the club was officially founded, marking the return of professional soccer to the region. The team joined Major League Soccer (MLS) in 2019 after an impressive run in the USL Championship, where it quickly gained national attention for its passionate fan base and record-breaking attendance. Since its MLS debut, FC Cincinnati soccer has become a major force in FC Cincinnati Ohio, showcasing steady progress on and off the pitch.
The name FC Cincinnati honors the city’s rich soccer heritage, tracing back to the 19th century when early teams like the Queen City Football Club represented the area. Over time, several professional and semi-professional clubs carried the city’s soccer spirit, including the Cincy Flames, Cincy Kings, Cincinnati Riverhawks, and Dayton Dutch Lions FC. This deep-rooted soccer tradition laid the foundation for FC Cincinnati to rise as a major club in American soccer.
From the beginning, FC Cincinnati team has been recognized for its devoted fan base, known as “Die Innenstadt” or “The Inner City.” Their passionate chants and vibrant stadium atmosphere have made TQL Stadium one of the most exciting venues in FC Cincinnati Ohio. The club’s supporters have been instrumental in creating an electric environment that rivals the best soccer atmospheres in the country.
Cincinnati Club Achievements
One of the most memorable moments in FC Cincinnati history was the club’s impressive 2017 U.S. Open Cup run, where they defeated two MLS teams before falling in the semifinals. That performance solidified their reputation as a rising powerhouse even before joining MLS. In 2023, FC Cincinnati history achieved one of its biggest milestones by winning the Supporters’ Shield, finishing the regular season as the league’s best team — a testament to their growth and ambition.
Today, FC Cincinnati soccer continues to evolve with a strong roster, strategic leadership, and an unwavering fan base. Their achievements in MLS, commitment to player development, and contributions to FC Cincinnati Ohio’s sports culture highlight a club built for long-term success. With continued progress, FC Cincinnati stands as one of the most inspiring success stories in modern American soccer.
Sports Fan Products
Retired Number
*Blue is this team’s history