November 11 – The Canadian Premier League (CPL) has announced a new expansion team in Vancouver that will start play in 2023.
The eight-team league is currently in its third season. The ninth franchise has been awarded to the SixFive Sports & Entertainment LP ownership consortium.
SixFive is a Canadian-based investment fund that is looking to build a diversified global portfolio of professional sports teams and infrastructure. Its investment criteria are based around the opportunity to build an engaged and intimate community sports experience.
SixFive is led by Knightsbridge Capital owner, Dean Shillington as well as former Canadian national team players Josh Simpson and Rob Friend. Starlight Investments is also part of the group.
“We are excited to bring the Canadian Premier League to Vancouver,” says Shillington. “We are currently speaking to several municipalities about a location and a potential new stadium for this club’s home pitch. Growing the league and investing in the Canadian game is our mission and we are thrilled to bring a new, fan-centric and energizing CPL team to Vancouver.”
The SixFive franchise will be the second professional men’s team in Vancouver. The Vancouver Whitecaps have played in the MLS since 2011 when they were admitted as an expansion team.
“Expanding into a great sports city like Vancouver is exciting,” said CPL Commissioner David Clanachan. “We look forward to working with SixFive to continue to grow professional soccer in Canada and create a solid foundation that will be the pathway for players to develop and showcase their skills in front of passionate supporters.”
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