Ohio Department of Development
Ohio Department of Development
18/07/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 19/07/2024 10:58
Ohio Kicks Off an Unforgettable Summer of Soccer
July 18, 2024
(COLUMBUS, Ohio) - Ohio is becoming a soccer haven this summer, welcoming fans to an exciting lineup of national events, top-tier matches, and several opportunities to see international soccer stars in action.
"Ohioans have a long-held passion for the great sport of soccer-and we're excited to cheer on the incredible talent from around the world right here," said Governor Mike DeWine. "Ohio is no stranger to hosting world-class events and thrilling competition. That's why, when it comes to sports, Ohio is truly the 'Heart of it All.'"
The "Summer of Soccer" kicks off this week in Columbus with the 2024 MLS All-Star Week. The 2024 MLS All-Star Game takes place on July 24 at Lower.com Field. Beyond the action on the pitch, the week-long event features live concerts, interactive fan experiences, and community-focused events.
To support the Greater Columbus Sports Commission in its bid for the 2024 MLS All-Star Game, the Ohio Department of Development awarded funding through the Ohio Sports Event Grant Program. The program provides grants to attract major sporting events to Ohio and, in turn, generate additional revenue for local, regional, and state communities.
"The Department of Development collaborates with community leaders all across Ohio to transform innovative and creative ideas into investments that help our state grow," said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Ohio Department of Development, which oversees TourismOhio. "This summer, we're excited to welcome teams and fans from around the globe to experience the thrill of soccer right here in Ohio."
Three days after the MLS All-Star Game, the Columbus Crew, the reigning MLS champions, will host a Premier League club in a first-ever Leagues Cup Showcase match. Hailing from Birmingham, England, Aston Villa FC will travel to Columbus for the July 27 match at Lower.com Field.
More international competitions will take place in August. Four-in-a-row Premier League Champions Manchester City FC will face fellow competitor Chelsea FC in a friendly match Aug. 3 at Ohio Stadium. The teams compete in matches across the United States. Fans can also watch an open training session on Aug. 2 at Lower.com Field.
On Sept. 10, the United States men's national soccer team will play the OFC Nations Cup Champions New Zealand men's national team in a friendly at TQL Stadium in Cincinnati.
The Summer of Soccer comes to an end as the Columbus Crew and FC Cincinnati meet for the second "Hell is Real" Ohio Derby of the 2024 season on Sept. 14 at TQL Stadium. Columbus leads the all-time series 7-4-4.
Both teams' seasons continue through mid-October with MLS regular season and Leagues Cup games.
Ohio is currently the only state in the Midwest to have two professional teams in Major League Soccer.
"With world-class venues, passionate fan bases, and a vibrant soccer culture, Ohio offers an unmatched experience for visitors," said Sarah Wickham, state tourism director. "We hope fans will come early and stay late - immersing themselves in the rich history, diverse culinary scenes, and lively arts and entertainment in Columbus and Cincinnati, creating unforgettable memories beyond the game."
According to recent TourismOhio research, more than 10 percent of overnight visitors came to Ohio for a special event in 2023, and an impressive 84 percent of overnight visitorsalso said they were likely to revisit Ohio within the next 12 months. TourismOhio provides several resources for visitors and Ohioans looking to plan their next adventure. The Official Ohio Travel Guide is available onlineor by mailand includes trip ideas and travel inspiration. New in 2024 is the Ohio Summer Events Guide foreven more can't-miss festivals and events across Ohio all summer long.
CITY BACKGROUND AND STADIUM INFORMATION
Columbus is a long-standing stalwart of American soccer. Columbus was one of the original founding members of Major League Soccer when the league was established in 1996. Historic Crew Stadium was the first soccer-specific stadium built in the United States, and since the construction of Lower.com Field, Columbus is the only major metropolitan area in the country to have two soccer-specific stadiums.
Lower.com Field is located in the Arena District, home to Nationwide Arena and Huntington Park, among many other downtown Columbus destinations. Travelers will find easy access to the stadium from nearby hotels and a wide selection of dining locations. The stadium is also within the Arena District's DORA boundaries. For more information and travel inspiration, check out the Columbus and Central Ohio region webpages at Ohio.org.
The Crew received $20 million from the state through Ohio Facilities Construction Commission's Cultural & Sport Facilities Grantand a $25 million loan through Development's 166 Direct Loan programto build Lower.com Field.
Named Best Venue at the 2022 World Football Summit and winner of the UNESCO Prix Versailles world title in the Sports Category, TQL Stadium is one of the most ambitious soccer-specific stadiums in the world. Home to FC Cincinnati - 2023 Supporters' Shield winners - the stadium is located in the West End neighborhood of Cincinnati near the historic Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. Travelers will find plenty to do nearby ahead of games with easy access to TQL Stadium and are encouraged to extend their stay in the Queen City and plan ahead by visiting the Cincinnati and Southwest Ohio region webpage at Ohio.org.
The legendary Ohio Stadium is the heart of The Ohio State University's campus. Historically known for hosting Buckeye football home games, the stadium also served as the first home of the Columbus Crew for their 1996-1998 seasons. Fans coming to the area can check out the Short North Arts Distract just south of campus or grab a bite to eat just north of campus in Clintonville. For more information and travel inspiration, check out the Columbus and Central Ohio region webpages at Ohio.org.
Operating within the Ohio Department of Development, TourismOhio works to showcase all Ohio has to offer as a place of adventure, a place of promise, and the place for you.
The Ohio Department of Development empowers communities to succeed by investing in Ohio's people, places, and businesses. Learn more about our work at development.ohio.gov.