Athletics Set June 23 Groundbreaking for Las Vegas Stadium Amid Funding Gaps

The Oakland Athletics are advancing their relocation to Las Vegas with a groundbreaking ceremony scheduled for June 23 at the former Tropicana site on the Las Vegas Strip. Early construction began in April, and the team aims to open the new $1.75 billion, 33,000-seat stadium for the 2028 MLB season. Despite progress, significant financing gaps remain, with about $1.1 billion to $1.35 billion still unaccounted for, raising skepticism about the project's completion. The Athletics will continue playing at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento until the new stadium is ready, a venue that has drawn criticism from players for its suitability. The team's owner, John Fisher, has pledged to cover funding shortfalls if new investors are not found, though doubt persists about this claim. Local and state officials, including Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo, are expected to attend the groundbreaking to show support for the project.