The soccer club that rose from a financial collapse
In short: Phoenix Rising FC didn't just appear; it was born from the ashes of a scandal. After a previous franchise folded due to unpaid players and fraud, a new team emerged in 2014, eventually setting North American records for winning streaks and attracting global icons like Didier Drogba.
The club's origins are rooted in a dramatic transition. On March 13, 2014, Kyle Eng launched Arizona United SC just one day after the previous franchise, Phoenix FC, folded. The predecessor had collapsed because it failed to pay its players on time and submitted inaccurate financial statements. In a rapid turnaround, the new franchise hired staff, secured a stadium, and played 28 regular-season games within just 178 days of being awarded by the USL Pro.
The team underwent significant evolution, including a rebranding to Phoenix Rising FC in late 2016 under new ownership. This era saw high-profile investments from figures like DJ Diplo and rock musician Pete Wentz. The club also secured major signings, such as former Chelsea legend Didier Drogba, who became an owner while playing for the side. These moves helped the team achieve a historic 20-match winning streak between May and September 2019—a record for the longest in North American soccer history.
The club's journey has not been without controversy or logistical hurdles. They have navigated stadium lease disputes, moving from Scottsdale Stadium to the Peoria Sports Complex before opening their own soccer-specific complex at Wild Horse Pass in 2021. Additionally, the team faced scrutiny following a 2020 incident involving a homophobic slur used by player Junior Flemmings during a match against San Diego Loyal, which led to protests, suspensions, and a public apology from head coach Rick Schantz.
Today, Phoenix Rising FC stands as a prominent member of the USL Championship. They have secured multiple Western Conference titles, including a championship in 2023. Their growth from a hastily assembled franchise into a record-breaking organization highlights a unique trajectory of rapid professionalization and community impact in Arizona sports.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Phoenix Rising FC
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