New York City FC were officially announced as the 20th MLS team on Tuesday, but it's a project that's been three years in the making.
Below is a timeline of the events and all the twists and turns which ultimately led to the birth of NYCFC:
May 7, 2010 – MLS Commissioner Don Garber states league's desire for 20th expansion team to be located in New York City "perhaps as early as 2013"
Nov. 16, 2010 – In state-of-the-league address, Garber reiterates goal of having 20th team in NYC and reveals meetings with Wilpon family and owners of Cosmos
Jan. 8, 2011 – MLS commissioner reveals "many interested ownership groups, with a wide variety of potential stadium plans," for NYC2
June 27, 2012 – The Wall Street Journal reports that MLS has approached New York state and city governments with plans for a soccer stadium in Flushing Meadows, Queens
Oct. 10, 2012 – MLS President Mark Abbott discusses details of possible stadium project in Flushing Meadows, Queens for the first time at roundtable with Spanish-language media
Nov. 13, 2012 – New York Post reports that New York City mayor Michael Bloomberg has put a soccer stadium in Flushing Meadows on his short list of priority projects before his term comes to an end
Nov. 20, 2012 – The Telegraph in England reports that Manchester City's owners are considering "a bid for a New York MLS franchise"
Nov. 26, 2012 – In annual state of the league address, Garber says David Beckham option to own an MLS team does not extend to New York.
Dec. 5, 2012 – MLS hosts town hall meeting at Queens Theatre in Flushing Meadows Park, a stone's throw away from proposed stadium site
Dec. 14, 2012 – Reports reveal MLS trademark registrations for names "New York City FC" and "City FC"
Dec. 15, 2012 – Bloomberg News reports that Manchester City "is close to being awarded an MLS expansion franchise in Queens, NY."
Jan. 3, 2013 – New York Daily News reports that the New York Mets are interested in bringing a potential MLS team to their stadium, Citi Field
Feb. 26, 2013 – MLS President Mark Abbott says stadium renderings released by New York Postwere not official
Feb. 28, 2013 – In first March to Soccer address, Garber indicates his confidence that a deal with potential owners could be finalized "relatively soon"
March 17, 2013 – Garber discusses NYC2 with media at halftime of RBNY vs. D.C. United stating: “I’m confident we’re going to get this done … It’s a big one for us and a legacy project for the league”
April 24, 2013 – MLS commissioner tells Toronto media that NYC2 announcement could come "in 4-6 weeks"
May 21, 2013 – MLS announces New York City FC as league's 20th expansion team
