The Sacramento Republic FC history tells the inspiring journey of Sacramento Republic soccer, a club founded in 2012 that quickly became one of the most successful teams in American lower-division soccer. FC Sacramento Republic gained national attention through passionate fans, strong performances, and its ambition to join Major League Soccer in the near future.
Established
2012
City
Sacramento
League History
2014 – Present / Major League Soccer
Team History
2014 – Present / Sacramento Republic FC
Nickname
Sacramento Republic FC – Sacramento Republic FC is one of the most beloved soccer teams in Major League Soccer (MLS). Since its inception, it has become a symbol of pride for the city and region. But what’s behind their name? What are the origins of Sacramento Republic FC's nickname?
Sacramento Republic FC Origin
The club was founded by Warren Smith and Joe Wagoner in 2012 with an ambitious goal: to bring MLS to Sacramento. The team held a fan vote on potential names, which was narrowed down to three finalists: City SC, Cal Expo, and Sac Republic. In April 2013, “Republic” won out as fans chose it because they felt it represented strength and unity within their community.
The name also pays homage to California's rich history as part of Mexico before becoming part of America during 1848-1850, when California became its republic briefly before joining forces with other states into what we now know today as The United States Of America. In Sacramento Republic FC history this historical reference gave rise to the team's logo and resonates deeply with all who call this place home, whether you're from here or have just moved here recently! It evokes feelings such as patriotism while still being unique enough so that people outside our area can recognize us too!
In addition, "Republic" speaks directly about how passionate Sacramentans are about supporting their local sports teams - whether they win or lose - because everyone knows that true loyalty comes from standing together through thick & thin! From day one until the present day, there has been an undeniable bond between players/fans/staff alike, making this organization truly special for those involved at any level...and why we proudly wear our colors every game without fail!!
Championship
MLS Cups 0
Stadium
2014 - Present / Papa Murphy's Park
2014 / Hughes Stadium
Owner
2012 - Present / Sac Soccer & Entertainment Holdings, LLC
- 2014
- 2015
- 2018
- 2000
- 2021
-
Republic FC Team Formation
On December 3, 2012, USL Pro announced that a Sacramento expansion team would join the league for the 2014 season. On July 15, 2013, Predrag “Preki” Radosavljević was announced as head coach of the new franchise. The official name of the team and team shield were decided by fan vote. On July 18, 2013, the franchise officially announced the team ... -
Rodrigo Lopez – team’s captain and leader
Rodrigo Lopez: The Mexican midfielder played for Sacramento Republic FC from 2014 to 2015 and again in 2020. He was the team’s captain and leader, scoring 20 goals and providing 18 assists in 64 appearances. He won the USL Pro Championship and the USL Pro MVP award in 2014. He also helped the team win the Supporters’ Shield in 2020 -
Sacramento Republic FC reached the USL Pro conference semifinals for the fourth time
In 2018: Sacramento Republic FC improves its performance in USL Pro, finishing second in the regular season and reaching the conference semifinals for the fourth time, where it loses to Phoenix Rising FC. -
Sacramento Republic FC plays a shortened season in USL Championship due to the COVID-19
In 2020: Sacramento Republic FC plays a shortened season in USL Championship due to the COVID-19 pandemic, finishing fifth in Group A and losing to Reno 1868 FC in the first round of the playoffs. The team’s average attendance is not available due to limited capacity at Bonney Field. -
Sacramento Republic FC On Joining MLS
In 2021: The team also continues to work on its MLS bid, as it searches for a new lead investor and reaffirms its commitment to join the league as soon as possible
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.
Sacramento Republic FC History
The Sacramento Republic FC history began in 2012 when Warren Smith and Joe Wagoner founded the club with a vision to bring professional soccer to Northern California. Competing in the United Soccer League (USL) since 2014, FC Sacramento Republic quickly became a powerhouse in American soccer, winning the USL Championship in their debut season in 2014 and again in 2019.
From its inception, Sacramento Republic soccer aimed for Major League Soccer (MLS) expansion. In 2015, the club launched an official bid to join MLS, gaining widespread community support and national attention. In 2019, MLS announced that Sacramento would receive an expansion team to begin play in 2022, marking a historic milestone for the region. However, the project was delayed after major investors withdrew during the COVID-19 pandemic, putting the MLS plans temporarily on hold.
Despite the setback, Sacramento Republic FC has remained committed to its goal of joining MLS. The club’s management continues to work with city officials and potential investors to make FC Sacramento Republic a reality at the top tier of U.S. soccer. Their resilience and community-driven approach have kept fans optimistic about the future.
Sacramento FC Achievements
The team has achieved notable success on and off the field, including record-breaking attendance figures and a strong youth academy that develops future talents for Sacramento Republic soccer. Their achievements in the USL Championship, community engagement, and consistent playoff appearances have solidified their reputation as one of the most respected clubs outside MLS.
Looking ahead, Sacramento Republic FC history continues to inspire soccer fans across the nation. With a loyal fan base and a winning mentality, FC Sacramento Republic remains a symbol of ambition, unity, and determination — paving the way for what could soon be an exciting new chapter in Sacramento Republic soccer at the Major League level.
Sports Fan Products
Retired Number
*Blue is this team’s history