Soccer Goal: Vikings Ramp Up Push For MLS Team

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — With construction underway on their new stadium, the Minnesota Vikings have intensified their push to add a Major League Soccer franchise to the facility.

The Vikings announced this week a partnership with promoter Relevent Sports, a major player in the soccer world that is also helping sell an international tournament game between two European teams that will be played at the University of Minnesota in August.

Relevent CEO Charlie Stillitano said Wednesday that whichever market his group brings a game to, the MLS usually follows.

Vikings officials have met with MLS leaders, touting their plan to make the 65,000-seat stadium intimate and energetic enough for soccer games.