A new mural has been put up in Columbus, Ohio as part of an ongoing attempt to prevent the relocation of the Columbus Crew. The Crew is one of the original 10 clubs that made up the first MLS season. Now the club, its history, its players and its massive fans' futures are in jeopardy. The club owner, Precourt Sports Venture, cites poor attendance and sales as the reasons they want to move the club across the country to Austin, Texas, despite claims that the owners had originally wanted to move the club when they purchased it in 2013. For those interested, check out Cincinnati Soccer Talk's publication: Hell is Real: The Precourt Sports Venture – Columbus Crew Timeline.
#SaveTheCrew Movement
In an attempt to prevent the relocation, supporter groups and fans from across the world have come together to support the cause and keep the team in Columbus. You can see the mural at Land Grant Brewing Company in Columbus, Ohio.
Current Form
The Columbus Crew have had a strong start to their season despite the impending doom. However in recent weeks the team has fallen on hard times. They currently sit 4th in the Eastern Conference as they travel to New York City this week to take on NYFC. The Crew will look to end a bad run of matches, having only picked up 1 win out of the last 7, with 3 of those being draws.
The Future
The jury is still out on what the future holds for the club. In recent months, it seems that a lot hinges on Precourt Sports Venture securing a stadium site and funds in Austin, Texas. Meanwhile, the city of Columbus continues to put forth bid after bid for the Crew to remain in the city. Columbus Business First describes the talks as "complex and delicate negotiations" in their July update.
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