The Toronto FC history tells the story of a powerful Toronto football team that transformed Canadian soccer. Founded in 2006, the Toronto FC team quickly rose through Major League Soccer, winning major titles and earning international respect. Their journey reflects Toronto’s passion for the sport and dedication to building a lasting soccer legacy.
Established
2005
City
Toronto
League History
2007 – Present / Major League Soccer
Team History
2007 – Present / Toronto FC
Nickname
Toronto FC – Toronto FC is one of the most celebrated teams in Major League Soccer (MLS). The team has a long and storied history, with fans worldwide cheering them on. But many don't know that Toronto FC's nickname - "The Reds" - has an interesting origin story.
Toronto FC Origin
The name was chosen to honor two former Canadian international soccer players: Bob Lenarduzzi and Dale Mitchell. Both men played for Canada at the 1986 FIFA World Cup, wearing red uniforms as part of their national colors. When Toronto FC was founded in 2007, it seemed only fitting to pay homage to these two greats by adopting "the Reds" as its official nickname.
However, there are other theories about why this particular color was chosen for Toronto FC's identity; some believe it may have been inspired by Liverpool Fc’s famous “Reds” moniker or a local firefighting unit that also used red uniforms! Whatever its origins, though, there can be no doubt that “the Reds” had become synonymous with success over time – after all, who could forget when they won MLS Cup 2017?
Whatever your opinion on how The Reds got their name might be — we can all agree that Toronto FC history will always remain close to our hearts!
Championship
MLS Cups 1
2017
Stadium
2007 - Present / BMO Field
Owner
2006 - Present / Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment
- 2007
- 2011
- 2017
- 2017
- 2017
- 2019
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Toronto FC Team Formation
MLS awarded Toronto a team in 2005. Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE) paid $10 million for the franchise. The name of the team was announced on May 11, 2006. -
Toronto FC wins 2011 Nutrilite Canadian Championship
Toronto FC has won its third consecutive Voyageurs Cup after winning the 2011 Nutrilite Canadian Championship. Second half goals by Joao Plata and Mikael Yourassowsky overturned a first half deficit en route to a 2:1 victory on the day and a 3-2 series victory on aggregate against Vancouver Whitecaps FC. The win clinches Toronto FC a spot in 2011-12 CONCACAF ... -
2017 MLS Champs
MLS Cup 2017 was the 22nd edition of the MLS Cup, the championship of Major League Soccer (MLS), contested between Toronto FC and Seattle Sounders FC on December 9, 2017. The match was hosted at BMO Field in Toronto, Canada, for the second consecutive year and third time overall. Both teams made their second appearance in the MLS Cup, in ... -
Toronto Club Wins Supporters’ Shield
In 2017: The Toronto club also completes a historic treble by winning the Supporters’ Shield and the Canadian Championship in the same season. -
2017 Canadian Championship Winner
Toronto FC won the 2017 Canadian Championship in dramatic fashion on Tuesday night with a last-gasp 2-1 win over the Montreal Impact (3-2 on aggregate) at BMO Field to lift the Voyageurs Cup and earn their spot in the CONCACAF Champions League. -
Toronto FC reaches its third MLS Cup final in four years
On November 10, 2019: Toronto FC reaches its third MLS Cup final in four years, but loses to Seattle Sounders 3–1 at CenturyLink Field.
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.
Toronto FC History
The Toronto FC history is a remarkable journey of determination and success in Major League Soccer (MLS). Founded in 2006, the Toronto football team quickly established itself as a competitive force and became the first Canadian franchise to join MLS. Over the years, the Toronto FC team has become a symbol of Canadian pride, drawing fans from across the country with its passionate performances and loyal supporters at BMO Field.
Throughout its early seasons, Toronto FC faced challenges as a new club but continued to grow steadily. The arrival of key players like Sebastian Giovinco, Jozy Altidore, and Michael Bradley transformed the team into a powerhouse. Their leadership and skill played a vital role in shaping the Toronto football team’s golden era. Giovinco’s incredible goals and Altidore’s crucial strikes made the Toronto FC history unforgettable for fans.
Between 2016 and 2017, the Toronto FC team reached consecutive MLS Cup Finals, showcasing their dominance in North American soccer. In 2017, they achieved a historic treble—winning the MLS Cup, the Supporters’ Shield, and the Canadian Championship in the same season. This incredible feat made the Toronto football team one of the most decorated clubs in MLS history.
Toronto Football Club Achievements
Beyond domestic competition, Toronto FC also shined internationally. They became the first Canadian club to reach the CONCACAF Champions League Final in 2018, narrowly losing to Chivas Guadalajara in a dramatic penalty shootout. The Toronto FC history includes several appearances in this continental tournament, proving their ability to compete against the best from North and Central America.
In recent years, the Toronto FC team continues to develop new talent while maintaining its competitive edge. With consistent performances and strong leadership, the Toronto football team remains one of Canada’s most successful and admired soccer clubs. Their story stands as a testament to passion, resilience, and the growing legacy of Canadian soccer on the global stage.
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Retired Number
*Blue is this team’s history