The real salt lake history reflects the journey of a determined real salt lake team that made its mark in Major League Soccer. Since joining the league, the club has shown incredible growth, resilience, and talent, shaping the identity of real salt lake football and inspiring a loyal fan base that continues to support them passionately.
Established
2004
City
Salt Lake City
League History
2005 – Present / Major League Soccer
Team History
2005 – Present / Real Salt Lake
Nickname
Real Salt Lake – Real Salt Lake has been a staple of Major League Soccer since 2005, and its nickname is one that many fans have come to recognize. But where did the name "Real" come from?
Real Salt Lake Origin
The answer lies in the Spanish soccer club Real Madrid, founded in 1902. The original owner of Real Salt Lake chose this name as an homage to his favorite team. Since then, it has become a symbol of RSL's commitment to excellence on and off the field—much like its namesake club from Spain.
In addition to honoring Real Madrid, there are several other reasons why “Real” was chosen as part of RSL's moniker. First and foremost is that it reflects Utah's proud heritage; much like how some states use nicknames such as "The Beehive State," “The Treasure State," or "The Silver State," using “Real” pays tribute both locally and internationally by showing respect for Utah culture while also recognizing its place among global soccer clubs with similar namesakes (such as Paris Saint-Germain). Additionally, combined with 'Salt Lake,' it creates an image of strength through unity - two powerful forces coming together under one banner: something all sports fans can appreciate!
Overall, whether you're cheering on RSL at Rio Tinto Stadium or tuning into matches around the world via television broadcasts or streaming services – know that every time you hear their official nickname being shouted out loud during games…you're celebrating more than just winning goals - but rather decades worth of history between two iconic teams!
Championship
MLS Cups 1
2009
Stadium
2008 - Present / Rio Tinto Stadium
2005 - 2008 / Rice-Eccles Stadium
Owner
2012 - Present / Dell Loy Hansen
20014 - 2012 / Dave Checketts
- 2005
- 2009
- 2010
- 2011
- 2013
- 2021
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Real Salt Lake Team Formation
Real Salt Lake became the twelfth MLS franchise when Major League Soccer awarded an expansion franchise on July 14, 2004, to SCP Worldwide, headed by Dave Checketts. Jason Kreis became the first player in RSL history, coming in a trade from the Dallas Burn. Other notable players that played in RSL’s early years include veterans Clint Mathis, Eddie Pope, and ... -
2009 MLS Champs
MLS Cup 2009 was the 14th edition of the MLS Cup, the championship match of Major League Soccer (MLS). The match took place on November 22, 2009, at Qwest Field in Seattle, Washington, and was contested between the Los Angeles Galaxy and Real Salt Lake. Real Salt Lake won the match 5–4 in a penalty shootout following a 1–1 draw. ... -
Real Salt Lake reached the final of the CONCACAF Champions League
In 2010: The club had its best regular season ever, finishing second in the Western Conference and setting a league record with a 20-game unbeaten streak. The club also reached the final of the 2010–11 CONCACAF Champions League, but lost to Monterrey of Mexico 3–2 on aggregate2 -
Real Salt Lake Club qualified for the playoffs for the third consecutive year
In 2011: The club had another strong season, finishing third in the Western Conference and qualifying for the playoffs for the third consecutive year. However, they lost to Seattle Sounders FC in the conference semifinals -
Real Salt Lake Club Hired Jason Kreis as the new head coach
In 2013: The club underwent a major overhaul, hiring Jason Kreis as the new head coach and signing several new players. After a slow start, the club went on a 15-game unbeaten run and finished first in the Western Conference. The club also reached its second MLS Cup final, but lost to Sporting Kansas City 7–6 on penalties after a ... -
RSL Finishes 2021 at Western Conference Final
In 2021: Real Salt Lake saw its historic Audi 2021 MLS Cup Playoff run come to an end in the Western Conference Final, falling 2-0 at Providence Park to the Portland Timbers, finishing the year just one game shy of the MLS Cup Final. The club had a roller-coaster season, dealing with injuries, COVID-19 cases and inconsistent form. The club finished ...
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.
Real Salt Lake History
The real salt lake history began in 2005 when the club was founded as a professional soccer team in Utah, competing in Major League Soccer (MLS). Since its debut, the real salt lake team has become a major part of Utah’s sporting identity, capturing the hearts of fans and contributing to the growth of real salt lake football across the state.
In the early years, the team worked hard to establish itself in the competitive MLS environment. Despite initial struggles, real salt lake football quickly gained recognition for its exciting playstyle and loyal fan base. The real salt lake team made history by reaching the MLS Cup finals twice in the early years, showcasing their determination and potential.
In 2009, real salt lake achieved a historic milestone by winning their first-ever MLS Cup title against the LA Galaxy. Goalkeeper Nick Rimando played a crucial role during this championship run, delivering spectacular performances that earned him praise from fans and analysts alike. His efforts cemented the team’s place in real salt lake history and elevated their reputation in MLS.
Salt Lake Achievements
Rimando’s consistency and leadership helped the real salt lake team remain competitive in subsequent seasons. Between 2010 and 2013, he earned four consecutive Goalkeeper of the Year awards, further establishing himself as one of the best in real salt lake football and MLS history. During this era, the club also captured multiple U.S. Open Cup titles, adding to their growing list of accomplishments.
The real salt lake history is also defined by a culture of resilience and development. Over the years, the real salt lake team has nurtured top talent and built a passionate community that continues to fill the stands every season. Their home matches at America First Field (formerly Rio Tinto Stadium) are a testament to the power and pride of real salt lake football.
In terms of achievements, real salt lake remains one of the most respected teams in Major League Soccer. They boast an MLS Cup title (2009), multiple U.S. Open Cup wins, and several playoff appearances that reflect their consistency and strength. The real salt lake team continues to chase new heights while honoring the legacy that defines real salt lake football — a story of passion, teamwork, and unbreakable spirit.
Sports Fan Products
Retired Number
9 Jason Kreis
11 Javier Morales
*Blue is this team’s history