The Montreal Impact history reflects the growth of Montreal Impact FC as one of Canada’s leading soccer clubs. Competing in Montreal Impact MLS, the team has become a major force through its loyal fan base, talented players, and commitment to the sport. Its story celebrates passion, progress, and the rise of Canadian soccer excellence.
Established
2010
City
Montreal
League History
2012 – Present / Major League Soccer
Team History
2021 - Present / Club de Foot Montréal
2012 – 2020 / Montreal Impact
Nickname
Impact – Since its inception in 1992, the Montreal Impact has been one of Canada’s top professional soccer teams. Over the years, the team has developed a solid following among sports fans in Quebec and beyond. But what many may not know is that there’s a fascinating story behind how they got their nickname: “Impact.”
Montreal Impact Origin
Then-owner Joey Saputo chose the name to reflect his vision for the club—to impact Canadian and international soccer culture. He wanted to create something unique that would be instantly recognizable, something that could represent Montreal and capture people's imaginations everywhere else around the world.
To achieve this goal, Saputo looked at two different sources of inspiration: nature and history (specifically French-Canadian history). The natural aspect comes from Montréal being located near two significant bodies of water—the St Lawrence River and Lac Saint Louis—which gave rise to its original nickname, “la ville aux eaux bleues" or "the city with blue waters." Meanwhile, he drew upon local heritage when deciding on ‘impact,' which references La Compagnie des Cent Associés (or The Hundred Associates), responsible for colonizing New France in 1627 under King Louis XIII's reign.
This company had such an influence over early development throughout Québec province it eventually became known simply as L'Impact de Montréal – hence why it was adopted by Joey Saputo all those years ago!
Today 'L'Impact de Montréal' is synonymous with success within Major League Soccer (MLS) circles, thanks mainly to its passionate supporters who never fail to show up every matchday, whether rain or shine! As long they keep doing so, we can expect plenty more memorable moments to come out very soon indeed…
Championship
MLS Cups 0
Stadium
2012 - Present / Saputo Stadium
Owner
2010 - Present / Joey Saputo
- 2012
- 2013
- 2014
- 2015
- 2016
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Impact Team Formation
On November 22, 2008, the group’s bid for an MLS franchise was not retained by commissioner Don Garber. In response to Vancouver’s successful bid in March 2009, Impact GM Nick De Santis commented that he expected chairman Saputo to pursue and realize his vision of Montreal as an MLS franchise someday. By May 16, 2009, the Montreal Gazette reported Garber ... -
Montreal Impact club wins its first Canadian Championship
In 2013: The Montreal Impact club wins its first Canadian Championship, beating Vancouver Whitecaps FC 6-3 on aggregate in the final. -
Montreal Impact club signs Spanish defender Adrián López
In 2014: The Montreal Impact club signs Spanish defender Adrián López from Wigan Athletic as its second designated player. -
Head Coach Mauro Biello
In 2015, head coach Frank Klopas was fired in August and replaced on an interim basis by former Impact player Mauro Biello. After qualifying for the playoffs and defeating Toronto FC in the first round before being eliminated in the Conference semi-finals by the Columbus Crew, Biello was hired permanently. -
Montreal Impact reaches the final of the Canadian Championship
In 2016: The club signs Belgian defender Laurent Ciman from Standard Liège as its fourth designated player. The club reaches the final of the Canadian Championship, losing on away goals to Toronto FC after a 2-2 draw on aggregate.
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.
Montreal Impact History
The Montreal Impact history stands as one of the most respected in Montreal Impact MLS and Canadian soccer. Founded in 1993, the Montreal Impact FC became a symbol of passion and consistency in North America’s soccer scene. Over the years, the club has established a strong legacy built on determination, loyal supporters, and remarkable achievements across domestic and international competitions.
The first major breakthrough for Montreal Impact FC came in 2004 when the team captured the USL First Division Championship. This triumph marked the beginning of a golden period for the club. Between 2009 and 2011, they enjoyed back-to-back title victories, showcasing their dominance at the national level. Their success continued in 2013 when they secured another Canadian Championship, strengthening their status in Montreal Impact MLS and beyond.
In 2012, the club entered the CONCACAF Champions League, marking a significant milestone in the Montreal Impact history. During that run, they faced top North American clubs and made history by defeating Mexican powerhouse Santos Laguna 4–2 on aggregate. Their thrilling semi-final battle with Real Salt Lake further cemented their place among elite teams in the region.
Montreal FC Achievements
Over the years, Montreal Impact FC has become known not only for its on-field performance but also for its commitment to developing future stars. The club’s youth academy has produced some of Canada’s finest soccer talents, many of whom have represented Montreal Impact MLS or gone on to succeed in European leagues. This dedication to nurturing homegrown talent has strengthened both the team and Canadian soccer as a whole.
Among their biggest achievements are multiple Canadian Championship titles and strong playoff runs in the MLS era. The Montreal Impact football club has also represented Canada with pride in international tournaments, earning respect for its competitiveness and skill. Today, Montreal Impact FC continues to build on its proud heritage, inspiring fans and shaping the next chapter of Montreal Impact history in North American soccer.
Sports Fan Products
Retired Number
20 / Mauro Biello
*Blue is this team’s history