Oakland Coliseum to Host Roots Soccer Team Starting 2025
- The Oakland A's will conclude their 57-year tenure at the Coliseum on September 26, 2023.
- The Oakland Roots soccer club will begin playing at the Coliseum in 2025, following a significant community investment round.
- The collaboration between the Roots and AASEG aims to revitalize the Coliseum area and strengthen community ties.
The Oakland A's will play their final game at the Coliseum on September 26, marking the end of an era that began in 1968. Following their departure, the Oakland Roots, a USL Championship League soccer club, will establish their home at the Coliseum starting in 2025. The African American Sports and Entertainment Group (AASEG) has secured agreements to purchase the Coliseum complex for $230 million, aiming to revitalize the area and create a vibrant community space. In the past year, the Roots have achieved significant milestones, including raising $3.1 million from over 5,400 investors, setting a record for U.S. sports community investment. Their valuation has increased from $78.2 million to $93 million, reflecting growing support and interest in the team. The club plans to open a second community investment round, further engaging local fans and stakeholders. The Roots are also working on long-term plans to build a modular soccer-only stadium within the Coliseum complex, which will allow for flexibility as development progresses. This modular approach is designed to accommodate future construction while ensuring the team has a dedicated space to play. The Roots are committed to collaborating with AASEG to enhance the Coliseum's overall redevelopment and maintain community engagement. While the Roots will play at the Coliseum for the 2025 season, they are exploring options for a more permanent home by 2026. The club's leadership emphasizes the importance of community resilience and adaptation, aiming to foster a strong connection between the team and the East Bay community.