The Seattle Sounders FC history showcases one of Major League Soccer’s most successful clubs. Known for passionate fans and iconic Seattle Sounders FC players, the FC Seattle Sounders have built a powerful legacy in American soccer. From early success to multiple championships, their journey reflects consistency, teamwork, and a lasting impact on MLS competition.
Established
2007
City
Seattle
League History
2009 – Present / Major League Soccer
Team History
2009 – Present / Seattle Sounders FC
Nickname
Sounders FC – The Seattle Sounders FC is one of the most successful Major League Soccer teams in history, having won four MLS Cups since its inception in 2009. But what many people may not know is that the team’s nickname has an interesting origin story.
Seattle Sounders FC Origin
When Seattle was awarded an MLS expansion franchise in 2007, fans were asked to help develop a name for their new team. After much deliberation and debate among supporters, “Sounders” was chosen as the official moniker due to its ties to maritime culture and tradition – deeply rooted within Seattle's identity as a port city on Puget Sound. The name also pays homage to two former professional soccer teams from Washington state: The North American Soccer League (NASL) Sounders of 1974-83 and USL First Division Sounders of 1994-2008.
In addition to being inspired by these historic clubs, “Sounders” was selected because it captures both the spirit of excitement surrounding soccer in Seattle at that time as well as embodying sound waves - which are symbolic of communication between players on the field during matches or chants from supporters cheering them on from stands! This unique combination makes it a perfect fit for fans who want to show off their love for this beloved club whenever they cheer "Go Sounders!"
Championship
MLS Cups 2
2019, 2016
Stadium
2009 – Present / CenturyLink Field
Owner
2019 - Present / Adrian Hanauer (majority), Jody Allen, Drew Carey, Terry Myerson and Katie Myerson, Russell Wilson, Ciara, Macklemore and Tricia Davis, Satya Nadella and Anu Nadella, Amy Hood and Max Kleinman, Joe Belfiore and Kristina Belfiore, S. Somasegar and Akila Somasegar, Chee Chew and Christine Chew, David Nathanson and Sabina Nathanson, Brian McAndrews and Elise Holschuh, Mark Agne and Tomoko Agne
2018 - 2019 / Adrian Hanauer (majority), Drew Carey, Joe Roth, and Estate of Paul Allen
2015 - 2018 / Adrian Hanauer (majority), Paul Allen, Drew Carey and Joe Roth
2007 - 2015 / Joe Roth (majority), Adrian Hanauer, Paul Allen and Drew Carey
- 2009
- 2014
- 2016
- 2018
- 2019
- 2020
- 2022
-
Sounders FC Team Formation
In 1996, as Seattle Seahawks owner Paul Allen worked with the city to build a new football stadium for his team, the potential of an MLS expansion team that could be a co-tenant helped drive public support for the effort. Many of the state’s voters supported the referendum to construct Seahawks Stadium because it was also expected to be a ... -
Seattle Sounders FC first supporter shield
In 2014: The club had its most successful season ever, winning its first Supporters’ Shield as the team with the best record in MLS and its fourth U.S. Open Cup, defeating Philadelphia Union 3–1 at PPL Park. The club also finished first in the Western Conference and qualified for the playoffs for the sixth consecutive year, but lost to LA ... -
2016 MLS Champs
MLS Cup 2016 was the 21st edition of the MLS Cup, the championship game of Major League Soccer (MLS), which took place on December 10, 2016, at BMO Field in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. It was the second final to be hosted in Toronto, after 2010, and the first there since the cup transitioned away from neutral-site venues. The Seattle Sounders ... -
Seattle Sounders win club-record ninth straight
In 2018: The Seattle Sounders club had another remarkable turnaround season, setting an MLS record with nine consecutive wins after a slow start. The club finished second in the Western Conference and qualified for the playoffs for the tenth consecutive year, but lost to Portland Timbers on penalty kicks after a 4–4 draw on aggregate in the conference semifinals -
2019 MLS Champs
MLS Cup 2019 was the 24th edition of the MLS Cup, the championship match of Major League Soccer (MLS), and took place on November 10, 2019, at CenturyLink Field in Seattle, Washington, United States. The match was contested by Seattle Sounders FC and Toronto FC to determine the champion of the 2019 season. It was a rematch of the 2016 ... -
Seattle Sounders FC won Supporters’ Shield
In 2020: The Seattle Sounders FC won its first Supporters’ Shield since 2014 and qualified for the playoffs for the thirteenth consecutive year. -
Seattle Sounders win Concacaf Champions League
In 2022: The Seattle Sounders club competed in its first FIFA Club World Cup, becoming the first MLS team to win the modern version of the CONCACAF Champions League by defeating Monterrey 3–2 at Allegiant 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.
Seattle Sounders FC History
The Seattle Sounders FC history stands as one of the most remarkable success stories in Major League Soccer. Founded in 2007, FC Seattle Sounders quickly became one of the league’s most dominant forces. Since joining MLS in 2009, the club has maintained an impressive record with multiple trophies, devoted supporters, and global recognition.
The foundation of Seattle Sounders FC history was built on strong community engagement and an unshakable fan culture. The club’s fan group, the Emerald City Supporters, has been instrumental in establishing an electric atmosphere at every home match. The team’s commitment to community efforts through initiatives like the Rave Green Project has also strengthened their connection with fans, reflecting the spirit of Seattle both on and off the pitch.
Throughout the Seattle Sounders FC history, the club has featured some of the most talented and respected names in MLS. Legendary Seattle Sounders FC players such as Clint Dempsey, Nicolás Lodeiro, and Osvaldo Alonso have been pivotal in shaping the identity of FC Seattle Sounders. Their contributions helped build a team known for resilience, teamwork, and high-caliber performance season after season.
Sounders FC Achievements
The Seattle Sounders FC achievements are exceptional. The team has captured four MLS Cups (2016, 2019, 2022, 2024), three U.S. Open Cups, and one CONCACAF Champions League title in 2022, becoming the first MLS club to win that tournament. They also hold multiple playoff records and consistently rank among the top clubs in attendance.
Today, Seattle Sounders FC continues to dominate Major League Soccer with a balanced mix of experienced veterans and rising stars. With their strong legacy, celebrated Seattle Sounders FC players, and ever-growing fan base, the FC Seattle Sounders remain a powerhouse in American soccer and a model for long-term success in the league.
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Retired Number
*Blue is this team’s history