by Charlie O. Mallonee

Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson made a major announcement during his “State of the City” address Thursday evening concerning new investors in the Sacramento Republic FC soccer club. Johnson revealed that San Francisco 49ers owner Jed York and several others from the 49ers organization would be making an investment the Sacramento Republic FC to enhance the chances of Major League Soccer granting a franchise to the Capital City.

This announcement came on the heals of the news the Sacramento Kings are coming on board as minority owners of the Republic FC. From statements that were made after the announcement, it appears the investment by the York group will be similar to the Kings stake in club.

Paraag Marathe – President of the 49ers – said the 49ers have so many ticket holders in Sacramento it is a natural to invest in the area. Marathe went on to say, “There is something really special here in Sacramento. The electricity and passion of the fans, city here is invigorating. There’s nothing like it.”

The main force behind the York group becoming involved locally was Mayor Kevin Johnson. Johnson is the one who introduced York and the others to Sacramento Republic FC lead investor Kevin Nagle. Johnson has made it clear that he sees a soccer only stadium as a key component of the rail yards development area.

Marathe indicated the York group believes in Sacramento as sports town and also as a development area. York’s family business background is built on the development of commercial property.

Marathe also stated the York group is “looking forward to leaning on its stadium expertise” having just opened Levi Stadium in Santa Clara in 2014.

The Sacramento Republic FC is hoping the power of two major sports franchise owners will give them an advantage as they try to convince Major League Soccer that its 24th franchise should be located in Sacramento.