Report: Beckham awarded Miami MLS franchise

News conference scheduled for Wednesday

MIAMI – David Beckham has brought Major League Soccer to South Florida.

The New York Times is reporting that Beckham will be awarded a franchise in Miami.

The team will be the league's 22nd.

Beckham will join Commissioner Don Garber for a news conference on Wednesday at 10 a.m.

The Times reports that the franchise will not begin play until at least 2016.

MLS has traditionally required owners to have a stadium plan in place before awarding a franchise.

Beckham and his representatives have been in communication with Miami-Dade County about potential sites for a soccer team.

Local 10's Neki Mohan spoke with Miami-Dade Commissioner Lynda Bell, who heads the Miami-Dade Sports Commission.

"I know meeting with David Beckham is going to be a tough job, but somebody has to do it, so I'm more than happy to be the person," Bell said. "I think it's coming, I believe MLS should have a home in Miami-Dade County and believe there's no better place than Miami-Dade County to have major league soccer."

Heat star LeBron James was asked about joining Beckham's group of Miami's win on Monday night.

James said, "I think it's great.  I think obviously soccer is, Futbol, is one of the most popular sports in the world.  I believe there's a lot of talent down here and I believe people are looking forward to it, and will enjoy the game down here in South Florida.  We'll see what happens."

James added, "I'm happy to have a really good relationship with Beckham and a lot of other guys that's part of it, so we'll see what happens."

James was asked specifically if he's involved with the deal, he said "We'll see, if I got enough time in my schedule."


About the Author:

David Lang is executive producer of the Local 10 sports department.