David Tepper, the billionaire owner of the National Football League's (NFL) Carolina Panthers, is set to ask the City of Charlotte for up to US$215 million to help secure a Major League Soccer (MLS) expansion franchise, according to the Charlotte Observer, reports, www.sportspromedia.com/.
According to the report, city officials told city council members during a closed session that Tepper wants funds to go towards Bank of America Stadium renovations and other costs associated with acquiring an MLS team. Officials added that an expansion slot could be awarded within weeks.
Tepper would reportedly contribute more than US$400 million in franchise fees and team operating costs. The city funds would be used for stadium upgrades as well as a practice centre and team office.
Panthers president Tom Glick told the Observer: "We continue to be in very close contact with the [MLS] commissioner's office (regarding expansion). There's no timetable, but we're very confident in our candidacy. We don't have any further update than that right now."
Although Sacramento is favourite to secure the 30th franchise slot announced by MLS commissioner Don Garber in April, Tepper and Glick's approach has apparently kept Charlotte in the discussion.
