New Waterfront Stadium to Elevate Tampa Bay Womens Soccer
On June 17, 2025, Tampa Bay Sun FC and the United Soccer League (USL) announced an ambitious vision for one of the worlds first stadiums built specifically for a professional womens soccer team. The planned 15,000-seat stadium will be located at Ybor Harbor, a vibrant 33-acre mixed-use development in Tampa, Florida. This new venue aims to serve as a permanent home for Tampa Bay Sun FC, the 2025 USL Super League champions, as well as anchor a new urban district that includes USL headquarters, residential, retail, restaurants, hotels, and office towers.
Collaboration and Vision for Growth
The project is led by Darryl Shaw, majority owner of Tampa Bay Sun FC and master developer of the Ybor Harbor district, in collaboration with USL CEO Alec Papadakis. Shaw described the vision as one “rooted in creating opportunity, celebrating excellence, and laying down a cornerstone for Ybor Citys continued revitalization.” Papadakis emphasized the stadiums role in accelerating the growth of womens soccer and creating lasting benefits for the Tampa Bay community.
A Year-Round Venue with Broad Impact
Beyond hosting Tampa Bay Sun FC games, the stadium is designed as a year-round venue for diverse events including sporting contests, concerts, festivals, and community gatherings. It will also accommodate select matches featuring U.S. National Teams and international squads for both men and women, further enhancing Tampas profile as a hub for soccer excellence.
Community and Economic Benefits
Tampa Mayor Jane Castor highlighted the stadiums significance for the community, stating the project will “capture our citys energy, inspire the next generation, and stand as a national symbol” of bold investment in womens sports and inclusive economic development. The proposed facility aligns with Tampa Bay Sun FCs success, having secured the USL Super League championship on June 14, 2025, finishing the season with a 14-6-10 record and the leagues best home record.
Design and Future Steps
The stadium concept was designed by The Beck Group, though no timeline or cost has been announced as organizers seek to engage the community and refine the plans. Tampa Bay Sun FC currently plays at a renovated riverfront stadium along the Hillsborough River in Downtown Tampa, which won the 2025 Downtown Experience Award from the Tampa Downtown Partnership.
Source: Original report