Los Angeles FC (LAFC) is a relatively young Major League Soccer (MLS) team, but they’ve quickly become a force to be reckoned with.
Let’s uncover some interesting facts about this exciting club:
- Hollywood Connections: LAFC boasts a star-studded ownership group with celebrities like Will Ferrell, Magic Johnson, and Mia Hamm.
- Rapid Rise: Founded in 2014, LAFC made their MLS debut in 2018 and quickly became one of the most successful expansion teams in league history.
- Home Field Advantage: LAFC plays their home matches at BMO Stadium, a state-of-the-art soccer-specific stadium located in the heart of Los Angeles.
- 3252: LAFC’s dedicated supporters section, located in the north end of the stadium, is known as “The 3252,” a nod to the number of seats in that stand.
- Black & Gold Pride: The team’s colors, black and gold, create a sleek and sophisticated aesthetic, making them instantly recognizable.
- El Tráfico: LAFC enjoys a fierce rivalry with crosstown rivals, the LA Galaxy, in a derby known as “El Tráfico.”
- MLS Cup Champions: LAFC capped off a thrilling 2022 season by winning their first-ever MLS Cup, defeating the Philadelphia Union in a dramatic penalty shootout.
- Record Breakers: In 2019, LAFC set an MLS record for most regular-season points and won the Supporters’ Shield (best regular-season record).
- Vela Power: Carlos Vela, the Mexican superstar, captained LAFC and won the MLS Golden Boot and MVP awards in 2019.
- Global Reach: LAFC actively recruits talented players from around the world, adding diverse flair and skill to their roster.
- Community Engagement: The LAFC Foundation focuses on youth development and improving access to soccer across Los Angeles.
- Developing Talent: The LAFC Academy aims to foster the next generation of professional players, providing pathways for local youth.
- International Stage: LAFC consistently competes in the CONCACAF Champions League, showcasing their abilities against the region’s best teams.
- Supporters’ Shield Success: In 2022, LAFC won their second Supporters’ Shield title, affirming their status as a regular-season powerhouse.
- Championship Mentality: LAFC embodies a relentless spirit, aiming to compete for top honors in Major League Soccer year after year.
Conclusion Los Angeles FC has quickly established themselves as one of the premier clubs in MLS. Their star power, passionate supporters, and dedication to success make them a force within the league and an exciting team to watch for years to come.