Chargers Announce Move to Los Angeles |
January 12, 2017
The Chargers and Team President Dean Spanos called a press conference earlier today, announcing the team's official move to Los Angeles. In a short statement read by Spanos, the team had weighed all of their options and were thrilled for an opportunity to relocate the franchise.
This marks a return to the original home of the franchise. The Chargers played in Los Angeles in 1960, as a member of the AFL. The Chargers played their home games at the LA Memorial Coliseum. Ironically, the Coliseum will be their temporary home for the next two seasons.
A tumultuous season for the Chargers organization ended with a 5-11 record on the field. The real action was off the field: A failed vote to build a stadium in downtown San Diego, a front office restructuring, and the clock ticking on a future in Los Angeles.
The Chargers were initially hesitant to move to Los Angeles. It seemed they had limited options after their proposed downtown stadium did not receive the public support it needed in November. The Chargers were rumored to consider other stadium sites and even a complete renovation of Qualcomm Stadium. Finally, they accepted the relocation.
"The Spanos family always considered San Diego home (to the Chargers)," said Dean Spanos, in his official statement to the media. "In the end, we see a brighter future in Los Angeles. The fanbase will have a chance to follow, but we are excited to introduce the Chargers to a whole new generation of fans."
The Chargers will have to end their lease with Qualcomm Stadium on February 1st. They will owe the City of San Diego a termination fee of $12,575,000 by ending the lease at that time.
Temporarily, the team will share the Memorial Coliseum with the Rams. City of Champions Stadium (currently under construction on the site of the former Hollywood Park Racetrack), will officially open for the 2019 season. The Chargers are responsible for a $200 million dollar loan to aid in the construction of the stadium.
Additionally, the team is also responsible for securing personal seat licenses toward the construction cost. Former season ticket holders will have a chance to buy season tickets, including a discounted package for the next two seasons.
When the stadium opens in 2019, the Chargers will become tenants and pay $1 per year to the Rams.
At this time, little else is known about the organization's move. The front office is focused on a search for a new Head Coach and General Manager. They will need to find a temporary team facility and site for training camp.
Spanos did not comment on the logistics of the move. Instead, he focused on the bright future for the Los Angeles Chargers.