The following is a statement from Kansas City Wizards Investor/Operator Lamar Hunt on January 25, 2005, on the proposed sale of the Kansas City Wizards.
As announced on December 9, we have made public our desire to find a buyer for the Wizards and also to encourage the possible future development of a soccer specific stadium as a playing site for a future ownership group.
During the ensuing six weeks we have had a substantial number of inquiries regarding the Wizards (these consisted of inquiries from 15 separate groups including two from major cities from outside of the Mid-America region). In addition, three substantial indications of interest have been shown for the development of a soccer stadium in the Kansas City Metropolitan Area.
Each of these inquiries are being handled in a confidential and, we hope, efficient fashion. The process is necessarily time intensive and I thought it would be important that I clear the air as to the Wizards plans for the 2005 season.
As previously announced the Wizards will be playing Deportivo of Saprissa, Costa Rica, on March 9, at Arrowhead in the opener of a two-game, total goals, knock-out competition in the CONCACAF Champions' Cup. Tickets have been on sale for that important International event and are priced at $5 (Youths, 15 and under) and $10 (Adults). The second game will be at Saprissa in Costa Rica on March 16.
The Wizards opening home MLS game will be April 2 against the Colorado Rapids and the full schedule of MLS games will be announced by the League in the next few weeks. So that there is no confusion for Wizards fans (and I should add that we have had positive and encouraging words from many of you) you should know that we anticipate that the team will be in Kansas City under the Hunt ownership for the entire 2005 season. Season ticket sales began last fall, and are continuing on a business-as-usual basis. Ticket package information is available at (816) 920-9300.
