Audi Field, home to Major League Soccer’s DC United and the National Women’s Soccer League’s Washington Spirit, faces a significant proposed overhaul just a decade after its 2016 opening. Citing the 'ever-changing realm of soccer in the USA,' the stadium, owned by the Government of the District of Columbia, is the subject of new legislative proposals aiming for a substantial upgrade.
Council Chairman Phil Mendelson has introduced legislation for a projected $620 million expansion of the arena. The plans call for the addition of a new roof and 8,000 extra seats, which would boost the venue's overall capacity to 28,000 fans. Furthermore, the proposal includes the development of a new housing complex, mandating United to construct 467 new homes, with 148 designated as affordable units and 122 reserved for senior citizens.
Funding for this ambitious project would see the District contribute approximately $300 million, with the remaining costs covered through alternative funding services. Chairman Mendelson clarified that this isn't a novel concept. He told FOX 5 DC: “The concept is, [DC United] wants a roof because that’s where Major League Soccer is going. They want to increase the size of the stadium, and to pay for that and I think some other upgrades, the city would front them the money and would be paid back by the revenues made by the stadium.”
The District has a track record of significant investment in local venues, having committed $1 billion to the Washington Commanders' new domed stadium, slated for a 2030 opening, and contributing $500 million to Capital One Arena, the home of the NBA's Washington Wizards and WNBA's Capitals. Mendelson emphasized the broader economic vision: “We’ve been talking for years about how we would diversify our economy... Soccer is actually a growing sport in this country. Again, what we’re looking up is a concept where the stadium pays for the improvements. And that’s what this legislation is about.” The council is expected to deliberate on this legislation in the fall.
DC United, one of the MLS's inaugural franchises from 1996, boasts four MLS Cup titles. The club played at Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium until 2017, when it transitioned to Audi Field. In its inaugural season at the new venue, the club welcomed England legend Wayne Rooney, following his stint with Everton. Rooney concluded his MLS tenure with 23 goals and 15 assists across 48 regular-season appearances, amassing a total of 25 goals in 52 appearances for DC United across all competitions.