From the Guardian · · 1m 40s
CF Montreal sale process begins
CF Montreal owner Joey Saputo starts structured sale to find new owner who keeps club in Montreal.
In brief
CF Montreal owner Joey Saputo starts structured sale to find new owner who keeps club in Montreal. CF Montreal's founder Joey Saputo began a structured sale process to find an owner who keeps the club in Montreal, with relocation to Las Vegas or Sacramento as potential options. Originally reported by the Guardian.
Saputo announces sale process
CF Montreal owner Joey Saputo began a structured sale process to find a new owner who keeps the club in Montreal.
“This decision is neither driven by urgency, nor dictated by circumstance”
Saputo insists club stays in Montreal
Saputo stated he hopes to find an owner who shares commitment to Montreal and ensures the club remains in the city for many years.
“I will love this club to stay here”
Saputo rules out relocation
Saputo refused to rule out selling to a buyer who might move the club to Las Vegas or Sacramento.
“if there’s an offer to relocate the club, and it’s in line with Major League Soccer and what they want to”
Saputo's valuation context
CF Montreal is valued at $435m, far exceeding the $40m expansion fee paid in 2012.
“Forbes rated CF Montréal as the second least-valuable club in MLS at an estimation of $435m”
Recent MLS sales history
Sporting Kansas City sold 71% to Peter Malouk at $700m and Columbus Crew sold 37% at $900m.
“In January, the Illig family sold 71% of ownership of Sporting Kansas City to Peter Malouk at a $700m valuation”
Montreal's recent performance
Montreal finished last in MLS in 2026 with only one playoff win since 2016.
“Montreal have won just one playoff game since 2016”
Saputo's financial concerns
Saputo acknowledged Montreal needs to spend more to compete with other MLS teams.
“Saputo acknowledged the need for the next owner to start spending in line with some of the other teams”
Potential relocation cities
Las Vegas and Sacramento are the most likely cities for Montreal to relocate to.
“The city is no longer just for gambling and debauchery, with the NHL’s Vegas Golden Knights joining as an expansion side in 2017”
Historical relocation context
Montreal Expos moved from Montreal to Washington in 2004 after struggling to find a buyer.
“The Expos played their final season in 2004, relocating to the US capital and playing as the Washington Nationals”
Saputo's interim plan
Saputo will continue running the club until a new owner is found.
“We’re going to continue to run the club”
What it means
CF Montreal's founder Joey Saputo began a structured sale process to find an owner who keeps the club in Montreal, with relocation to Las Vegas or Sacramento as potential options.
