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Overview
The New York Red Bulls, previously known as the New York/New Jersey MetroStars, are a professional soccer team that has been a part of Major League Soccer (MLS) since 1996. The team is owned by Red Bull GmbH, an Austrian-based energy drink company, and is one of the most successful teams in MLS history. The Red Bulls play their home games at Red Bull Arena in Harrison, New Jersey, which has a seating capacity of over 25,000. The team has a strong rivalry with the New York City FC, with whom they contest the Hudson River Derby.
The Red Bulls have a rich history, dating back to their founding in 1995 as the New York/New Jersey MetroStars. The team played in the American Professional Soccer League (APSL) and the A-League before joining MLS in 1996. Over the years, the team has undergone several rebranding efforts, changing its name to the New York Red Bulls in 2006. This change was made to reflect the team's new ownership and to better align with the Red Bull brand.
History/Background
The New York Red Bulls were founded in 1995 as the New York/New Jersey MetroStars, with the goal of bringing professional soccer to the New York metropolitan area. The team played its first game in 1996 and finished its inaugural season with a 10-14-4 record. Over the years, the team has had its share of successes and failures, including a playoff appearance in 2000 and a U.S. Open Cup title in 2003. In 2006, the team was rebranded as the New York Red Bulls, marking a new era for the team.
In 2010, the Red Bulls moved to their new home, Red Bull Arena, which was built at a cost of over $200 million. The stadium has a seating capacity of over 25,000 and features a state-of-the-art playing surface and amenities. The Red Bulls have had several notable players throughout their history, including Thierry Henry, who played for the team from 2012 to 2014 and helped the team win the MLS Supporters' Shield in 2013.
Key Information
* League: Major League Soccer (MLS)
* Location: Harrison, New Jersey
* Stadium: Red Bull Arena
* Capacity: 25,000
* Owner: Red Bull GmbH
* Head Coach: Gerhard Struber
* Notable Players: Thierry Henry, Bradley Wright-Phillips, Luis Robles
* Achievements: MLS Supporters' Shield (2013), U.S. Open Cup (2003)
Significance
The New York Red Bulls are one of the most successful teams in MLS history, with a strong following in the New York metropolitan area. The team has a rich history and has undergone several rebranding efforts over the years. The Red Bulls have a strong rivalry with the New York City FC, with whom they contest the Hudson River Derby. The team has a strong commitment to developing young players and has a successful academy program.
