Yes, David Beckham's people are back in Miami to talk about a stadium. No, there's still no answer as to whether or not a deal is ready to be made.
Beckham's group is meeting with University of Miami President Donna Shalala, Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Gimenez and MLS Commissioner Don Garber today to talk about another possible site for a stadium. This time they're looking at a possible partnership between Beckham's group and the University of Miami.
Shalala has said she's not sure SunLife Stadium is a good spot for the football team. It's too far away and too big to bring in a big enough crowd. She would prefer a smaller (40,000-45,000 seat) stadium closer to the university. The site next to Marlins Park, where the old Orange Bowl stood, is a preferred spot.
But, will UM go in as a partner on costs? And, can the university get out of its long contract with SunLife Stadium? Here's what Beckham's group said in a press release:
"David (Beckham), Marcelo (Claure) and Simon (Fuller) are making progress toward bringing an MLS club to Miami-Dade County. We're in the process of identifying viable sites and are entertaining a number of options. We look forward to sharing positive news with our fans soon."
The different representatives are planning to meet today (Friday) at 5PM. The location has not been listed.
As for soccer fans waiting for a team, there's only one more year to wait. Paolo Maldini, the retired AC Milan star, is teaming with Riccardo Silva to launch Miami FC of the North American Soccer League. They will play at Florida International University.
