### Oakland Athletics Break Ground on $1.75 Billion Las Vegas Stadium: A New Era Begins The Oakland Athletics have officially commenced construction on a new $1.75 billion stadium in Las Vegas, marking a significant transition for the franchise as they prepare to leave their long-time home in Oakland. The groundbreaking ceremony took place on June 23, 2025, with team owner John Fisher and MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred in attendance. The new stadium, which will have a capacity of 33,000, is expected to be completed in time for the 2028 MLB season, symbolizing a fresh start for the team in a new city [https://www.themirror.com/sport/baseball/oakland-athletics-las-vegas-stadium-1224773][https://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/article/athletics-new-stadium-rob-manfred-john-fisher-take-part-in-groundbreaking-event-for-las-vegas-ballpark-193509363.html]. ### Overview of the Groundbreaking Event and Future Plans 1. **Groundbreaking Ceremony**: The Athletics celebrated the groundbreaking of their new stadium with a ceremony attended by key figures, including team owner John Fisher and MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred. Fisher emphasized the team's commitment to Las Vegas, declaring, "We are Vegas' team" [https://www.usnews.com/news/sports/articles/2025-06-23/athletics-celebrate-groundbreaking-of-1-75-billion-stadium-project-in-las-vegas][https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/world-news/mlbs-oakland-as-celebrate-groundbreaking-31919545]. 2. **Stadium Specifications**: The new stadium will be an enclosed facility with a capacity of 33,000 fans, designed to enhance the spectator experience and accommodate the growing fan base in Las Vegas [https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/45570507/athletics-celebrate-groundbreaking-175b-vegas-stadium]. 3. **Timeline for Completion**: Construction is expected to be completed by the start of the 2028 MLB season, with work having already begun in late April 2025 [https://www.reviewjournal.com/sports/athletics/athletics-to-host-las-vegas-ballpark-groundbreaking-ceremony-3388249]. ### Key Data and Financial Implications - **Investment Amount**: The total investment for the stadium is $1.75 billion, reflecting the significant financial commitment from the Athletics' ownership [https://www.ktnv.com/news/watch-groundbreaking-begins-for-the-athletics-las-vegas-ballpark]. - **Capacity**: The stadium will accommodate 33,000 fans, which is designed to create an intimate yet vibrant atmosphere for games [https://www.yardbarker.com/mlb/articles/athletics_break_ground_on_175b_stadium_on_las_vegas_strip/s1_17044_42366682]. - **Historical Context**: This move comes after the Athletics faced financial challenges in Oakland, including a projected loss of $40 million due to the lack of a new stadium [https://www.yardbarker.com/mlb/articles/athletics_break_ground_on_175b_stadium_on_las_vegas_strip/s1_17044_42366682]. ### Conclusion: A Transformative Move for the Athletics The groundbreaking of the new $1.75 billion stadium in Las Vegas represents a pivotal moment for the Oakland Athletics as they transition to a new market. 1. **Strategic Shift**: The move is aimed at revitalizing the franchise and securing its financial future in a city that is increasingly becoming a hub for professional sports. 2. **Community Engagement**: The Athletics are positioning themselves as a key player in the Las Vegas sports landscape, with ownership expressing a strong commitment to the local community. 3. **Future Prospects**: With the new stadium set to open in 2028, the Athletics are poised to attract a new fan base and enhance their brand in a rapidly growing market. This transition not only marks the end of an era for the Athletics in Oakland but also opens a new chapter filled with potential in Las Vegas [https://abc7news.com/post/groundbreaking-athletics-new-ballpark-las-vegas-site/16826752][https://www.ktnv.com/news/watch-groundbreaking-begins-for-the-athletics-las-vegas-ballpark].