SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - Wilton Rancheria is becoming a majority owner of Sacramento Republic FC soccer team, marking an expansion into professional sports.

The rancheria and Republic FC announced the partnership at a press conference on Nov. 7, along with plans for a new soccer stadium in downtown Sacramento.

“This is a ground-breaking achievement, not only for our tribe but for the broader Native American community,” tribal Chairman Jesus Tarango said at the event. He noted that the rancheria will become the first Native American tribe with majority ownership of a men’s professional sports team.

“This partnership is far more than a business transaction; it represents a significant step forward, one that honors the tribe’s deep and enduring connection to this land while celebrating the diversity that defines the Sacramento region,” Tarango said. “In an industry where ownership has traditionally lacked diversity, this partnership underscores our commitment to cultural representation and inclusivity, ensuring that the voices of our people are reflected at the highest levels of professional sports.” 

Republic FC managing partner and owner Kevin Nagle was optimistic about the new partnership.

“It is an honor to welcome the citizens of Wilton Rancheria to join Republic FC,” Nagle said in a written statement. “As we form this new partnership, it has been very clear that the future of the city, the club, and the community that includes the citizens of Wilton Rancheria are immense sources of pride and passion — with a relentless pursuit to protect and grow. Together, we’ve created a path to building a stadium downtown and we can take a massive step next week.”

The announcement also included a proposal by Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg to expedite the construction of a soccer stadium at The Railyards area in downtown Sacramento. The proposal would clear the way for Republic FC to buy the necessary land. Sacramento City Council was set to consider the item at its Nov. 12 meeting, after press time.

The Railyards is planned as a 31-acre development, meant to “create a new neighborhood to spark the next generation of economic transformation,” Republic FC said in a press release. The soccer club noted that the Rancheria’s ancestral land includes the site.

“This partnership allows (Wilton Rancheria’s) citizens to continue to flourish on their ancestral lands and while building an enduring legacy for the Tribal Nation,” Republic FC continued.

Tarango thanked Republic FC officials, as well as rancheria Chief Operating Officer Chris Franklin for their work on the project.

“Today marks the beginning of an exciting new era for Wilton Rancheria. While we have long been a part of Sacramento’s history, this partnership presents a unique opportunity for us to help shape its future,” Tarango said.