The cost, of course, is the kicker [[sorry about that). While MLS has shown some flexibility on the stadium issue, that is probably not operative here. There is no good option for a temporary facility. Comerica Park, I suppose, could double as a playing field, like RFK or Yankee Stadium. Ford Field would be great except for the issue of it being an indoor, turf field. I think every MLS team plays outdoors, and most [[I think) play on grass. But if a plan could be set up to eventually work towards an independent stadium, I don't think that would be an obstacle. The stadium could be paid for over time, assuming a responsible operator put forward and began work on a stadium plan. If I were the operator, I would probably try to use Comerica Park, and perhaps play a summer game or two at Spartan Stadium and Michigan Stadium, until a permanent stadium was built.
As for the franchise fee, that is a steep cost. I think there are a very limited number of potential Detroit or Michigan based candidates. Gilbert would be the most likely. The Ilitches would be a possibility, especially if the next generation would seek to fully split into separate pizza, casino, and sports/entertainment divisions. Tom Gores would have the money; I am not sure he has the interest. The Meijer or Devos families could do it [[although based in West Michigan). And there is an outside chance that a company not based in Detroit or Michigan could see it as an investment here, although I strongly favor having a local owner [[it helps to keep a team from moving).
The biggest challenge for an MLS franchise here is identifying who the franchisee would be; if one steps up, I think Detroit is a great choice. If one doesn't, I don't see any amount of study by MLS making a franchise here work.
Note: I think St. Louis is a very challenging city for MLS [[it is another market mentioned in the article). They lost an NFL team, although to be fair it was not for lack of a fan base. And in the same state, Kansas City is a real success story for the MLS with a beautiful new stadium. Here's to hoping!
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