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Toronto MLS affiliate set for transformational 49-mile relocation and ‘iconic’ new stadium
Toronto FC II will relocate to the city of Barrie, where a new soccer-specific stadium is set to be built downtown.
The minor league affiliate of Toronto FC was founded in 2014 and competes in MLS Next Pro, a third tier league of the United States soccer league system.
Over the past decade, the club has played an important role in developing some of the brightest young soccer talent in Canada, a nation which co-hosted the 2026 World Cup.
From 2028, Toronto FC II will do that from Barrie, rather than the North York district.
MLS Next Pro team to build ‘iconic small soccer stadium’
Announcing news of the 49-mile relocation, the team unveiled plans for a 3,500-capacity downtown stadium.
It will be designed to become ‘one of the most iconic small soccer stadiums in North America’ and will be located in the heart of the city.
Beyond soccer, the venue will act as a community destination 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,” Chris Shewfelt, lead governor of Toronto FC II, said.
“The City of Barrie and Barrie Stadium Group has demonstrated tremendous 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 downtown Barrie and strengthening the Toronto FC pathway.”
Toronto FC II relocation will be ‘transformational’ for city of Barrie
The relocation has been described as a ‘landmark’ 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 most ‘significant investments in community soccer infrastructure’ in Canada’s recent history.
“This is a transformational day for Barrie,” Mayor Alex Nuttall said.
“This investment in our community, alongside Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment and Barrie Stadium Group’s investment in the newly formed Barrie MLS NEXT Pro franchise, will not only allow for professional sports to grow in Barrie, but provide a pivotal community hub for our youth sports to compete and learn in.
“From football to soccer, lacrosse to rugby, this new facility will help grow our youth sports while also making Barrie home to professional and international soccer.
“This is a great day for Barrie, MLSE, Barrie & Canada Soccer.”
What features will the new Toronto FC II stadium boast?
Additional details regarding the new stadium will be announced in the coming months, and it has already been reported that the permanent capacity of 3,500 will have the ability to expand to over 8,500.
With a fully covered grandstand, executive suites, premier lounges and field-side seating, it plans to put fans closer to the action than anywhere else in the country.
The stadium will also feature a rooftop terrace overlooking the scenic waterfront of Kempenfelt Bay.
“More than 30 years ago, we helped bring the (Ontario Hockey League team) Barrie Colts to our community and built a venue, Barrie Molson Centre, that has become part of the identity of this city,” Barrie Stadium Group chairman Jamie Massie said.
“Today we have the opportunity to do it again through the world’s game.
“This team and stadium will become part of the identity of our city for generations to come.”
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