Week in Review: Countdown to 2011

As many have begun holiday breaks and preparation for festivities, 2011 looks to be an exciting year that is just around the corner. We are left with a few items that will be of interest in the new year.

New Stadium Plans for D.C. United
Washington D.C based club, D.C. United, may be calling Baltimore home in 2012 (or at least playing there). Baltimore Development Corporation released a report indicating that a soccer-specific stadium in the city's Westport section would "generate up to 940 new jobs and $2.8 million in city tax revenue."

ESPN looks to grow abroad
ESPN has expressed interest in growing its network across the pond in the U.K. Besides World Cup and MLS matches, ESPN has also only televised UEFA Champions League matches. An opportunity to obtain the rights to English soccer match presents a new opportunity in addition to earning a good reputation in the U.K.

MLS wants New Deal from FSC
Major League Soccer is seeking to renew deal with Fox Soccer Channel worth $20 million per year. The asking price is almost seven times more than the current deal. The previous contract netted the MLS $3 million annually. It will be interesting to see the finalized figures and the justification the MLS provides for the enormous increase.



Happy Holidays and Happy New Year to you and yours. See you in 2011!

Best Wishes,
BusinessofSoccer.com