Toronto FC II will move to the city of Barrie, where a new soccer stadium will be built in the middle of the city.
Toronto FC’s minor league organization was founded in 2014 and competes in MLS Next Pro, the third-tier league of the United States soccer league system.
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Over the past decade, the club has played an important role in developing one of the most talented young soccer players in Canada, a host country for the 2026 World Cup.
Starting in 2028, Toronto FC II will do so from Barrie, instead of the North York region.
MLS Next Pro team builds ‘miniature soccer stadium’
Announcing the 49km move, the group unveiled plans for a 3,500-capacity stadium in the city centre.
It will be designed to be ‘one of the most spectacular miniature football stadiums in North America’ and will be located in the heart of the city.
Apart from soccer, the venue will serve as a public space capable of hosting other professional sports, as well as concerts and festivals.
“This partnership represents an exciting next chapter for Toronto FC II and our MLS NEXT Pro franchise,” said Chris Shewfelt, managing director of Toronto FC II.
“The City of Barrie and Barrie Stadium Group have shown great ambition, a clear vision for the future, and a deep commitment to growing the game.
“Together, we are creating an environment that will support player development while bringing professional soccer to the city of Barrie and strengthening the path of Toronto FC.”
The relocation of Toronto FC II will be a ‘transformation’ for the city of Barrie
The move is described as a ‘partnership’ between the City of Barrie, Toronto FC II owners Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE), MLS NEXT Pro, and Barrie Stadium Group.
It hopes to deliver one of the ‘significant investments in soccer infrastructure’ in recent Canadian history.
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“This is a transformative day for Barrie,” said Mayor Alex Nuttall.
“This investment in our community, along with Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment and Barrie Stadium Group’s investment in the newly formed Barrie MLS NEXT Pro franchise, will not only allow professional sports to grow in Barrie, but will provide an important community base for our youth sports to compete and learn from.
“From soccer to soccer, lacrosse to rugby, this new facility will help grow our youth sports and make Barrie the home of professional and international soccer.
“This is a great day for Barrie, MLSE, Barrie & Canada Soccer.”
What features will Toronto FC II’s new stadium boast?
More details about the new stadium will be announced in the coming months, and it has already been reported that the permanent capacity of 3,500 will be expandable to over 8,500.
With a fully covered Grandstand, executive suites, premium lounges and stadium-side seating, it plans to put fans closer to the action than anywhere else in the country.
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The venue will also feature a rooftop terrace overlooking the scenic Kempenfelt Bay waterfront.
“Over 30 years ago, we helped bring the (Ontario Hockey League team) Barrie Colts to our community and built a venue, the Barrie Molson Centre, that has become part of this city’s identity,” said Barrie Stadium Group chairman Jamie Massie.
“Today we have the opportunity to do it again with the world game.
“This team and stadium will be part of our city’s identity for generations to come.”
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