The City of Kelowna aims to introduce a professional soccer team by 2028, as announced by Kelowna Mayor Tom Dyas and city officials during a recent event with representatives from the Canadian Premier League (CPL). Key priorities include securing an ownership group and investing up to $25 million to enhance the Apple Bowl stadium to meet CPL standards.

Mayor Dyas highlighted the positive impact of hosting major events like B.C. Lions football games and the Canadian Hockey League’s Memorial Cup, emphasizing the city’s readiness to welcome a CPL team in 2028. Proposed upgrades to the Apple Bowl include a new 3,000-seat grandstand, enhanced facilities such as locker rooms and a broadcast center, a scoreboard, and the conversion to artificial turf.

Approval for the stadium improvements will be sought in the upcoming city budget after the fall election. Mayor Dyas, seeking re-election, faces competition from contenders like businessperson Emily Salsbury and former MP Ron Cannan. The CPL, established in 2019 as Canada’s premier men’s soccer league, is part of the country’s soccer growth strategy, with Kelowna’s initiative aligning with the league’s vision.

CPL’s executive vice-president, Marni Dicker, expressed satisfaction with Kelowna’s progress towards hosting a CPL team, underlining the importance of securing an ownership group for the endeavor. Dicker emphasized the shared goal of positioning Kelowna as a future CPL venue and looks forward to engaging potential ownership groups interested in the opportunity.