Forest City Cleveland: Cleveland's New MLS NEXT Pro Squad Set for 2027 Launch

Professional soccer is coming to Cleveland, and the new club's name is already generating buzz across the city. Forest City Cleveland will begin play in the MLS NEXT Pro league when the 2027 season kicks off, according to Tuesday's announcement from the Cleveland Soccer Group.

The organization unveiled its brand identity following an extensive year-long development process. More than 3,000 residents contributed their input through surveys, focus groups, and one-on-one interviews to help craft the team's visual identity and official name. It's an impressive level of grassroots engagement.

This announcement represents a milestone moment for the Cleveland Soccer Group as they work toward establishing professional soccer in the Ohio city. With the branding now public, the organization can begin ticket sales, launch merchandise lines, and organize community engagement activities well ahead of the team's inaugural season.

Understanding MLS NEXT Pro

MLS NEXT Pro operates as a third-tier professional league that launched in 2022. The league serves as a developmental bridge connecting Major League Soccer with MLS youth academy systems. Essentially, it functions as a proving ground where emerging talent gains valuable professional minutes.

Although Forest City Cleveland won't be competing at the highest tier immediately, this developmental pathway has proven successful for numerous soccer organizations. For football enthusiasts and bettors tracking up-and-coming squads, this academy-style model offers opportunities to scout future MLS stars before they break through to the top flight.

Cleveland's Forest City Heritage

The "Forest City Cleveland" moniker draws inspiration from Cleveland's historical nickname, "The Forest City." The club's badge showcases the 350-year-old sycamore tree located in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, famously called the "Die Hard Tree." It's an authentic nod to local heritage.

Cleveland-born designer Alex Kocher partnered with strategist Mo Fitzgerald to create the brand identity. Both bring substantial professional soccer branding credentials to the project, ensuring a polished result.

The name structure itself merits discussion. While many observers interpret "Forest City" as a clever reference to "FC" (Football Club) — similar to FC Barcelona or FC Bayern — the syntax differs from conventional team naming conventions. Traditional clubs typically adopt formats like "Forest City FC" or "FC Forest City" instead.

Leading up to the 2027 debut, Forest City Cleveland intends to host match viewing parties and community gatherings throughout 2026. This early fan cultivation strategy makes excellent business sense. Cleveland-area football supporters looking to join a club from its inception should watch for these events.