The U.S. Soccer Federation is embarking on a significant project to build a new headquarters and training facility in Georgia, with a total cost of $225 million. The organization is seeking to fund this project through the issuance of $200 million in tax-exempt revenue bonds, with Arthur M. Blank committing $50 million to the endeavor. The bonds have been structured with various maturities and are rated BBB by Fitch Ratings, indicating a stable outlook.
The bonds are secured by a senior lien on certain revenues of U.S. Soccer and a debt service reserve account, providing a stable financial backing for investors. The bond issuance will require periodic early set asides of installments and will fund six months’ worth of average annual debt service and approximately 20 months of capitalized interest at closing, ensuring ample liquidity.
Unlike traditional sports stadiums, which often receive public subsidies and support from state and local governments, the U.S. Soccer training center presents a different model. Acting as a not-for-profit organization, U.S. Soccer’s project aims to provide a community-focused facility that will create over 400 jobs and bring cash flow into the state of Georgia. This contrasts with the luxury-focused stadiums, which cater to higher-income individuals and often exclude lower-income fans.
The U.S. Soccer training center will feature a 200-acre site with numerous outdoor soccer fields, indoor pitches, and office headquarters. The consolidation of U.S. Soccer’s headquarters and training facilities will lead to cost savings and increased operational efficiencies. By bringing all aspects of the organization together in one location, U.S. Soccer aims to enhance its mission of growing soccer in the United States through various programs.
The project has gained significant support from local donors, including Arthur M. Blank and Dan Cathy, as well as national corporate partners like Coca-Cola. The backing of these stakeholders reflects the importance of the project within the soccer community and highlights the value of U.S. Soccer as the national governing body for the sport in the United States.
Fitch Ratings has assigned U.S. Soccer a BBB rating, citing its solid revenue base and strong corporate partnerships. Despite its financial strength, there are limitations to U.S. Soccer’s rating due to its smaller league structure and lower percentage of contractually obligated income compared to peers. However, growth opportunities lie ahead with events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, and a potential bid for the 2031 Women’s World Cup.
The U.S. Soccer Federation’s financing of its new training facility represents an innovative approach to sports infrastructure development. By creating a state-of-the-art facility that prioritizes community engagement and operational efficiency, U.S. Soccer is setting a new standard for sports organizations in the United States. With strong financial backing and support from key stakeholders, the project is poised for success and will likely have a significant impact on the growth and development of soccer in the country.