For the first time, Phoenix Rising will play soccer in its namesake city.
Arizona’s highest-level professional soccer franchise will kick off its home opener Saturday, April 1, at the former Greyhound Park racetrack near 38th and Washington streets. The stadium is two-tenths of a mile from a light rail station and, as part of a deal between Valley Metro and Rising, match ticket holders can ride the train for free on gamedays.
Last November, after the City Council approved a five-year lease for the site owned by Sky Harbor Airport, the club relocated its stadium from Wild Horse Pass on the Gila River Indian Community.
Rising will pay $300,000 in rent the first year, with annual increases based on inflation. The club could be reimbursed for construction costs if investments benefit the airport beyond the term of the lease. Rising expects the location and size to attract more fans and help grow its competitive youth soccer club. After the lease expires, the club could consider other locations to build a larger permanent stadium.
