NSL Winnipeg Reveals Stadium, Will Involve CPL Stadium Builder

We said Winnipeg was set for stadium news today, and the NSL – along with government officials – have delivered that in spades.

Winnipeg’s upcoming Northern Super League expansion side will officially be calling the Ralph Cantafio Soccer Complex home, thanks to a new modular stadium set to be installed by SixFive Stadiums through a landmark $8.5 million investment from the Northern Super League, the Government of Canada, the Province of Manitoba, and the City of Winnipeg.

The development of the new modular, purpose-built stadium is being helmed by the aforementioned SixFive Stadiums, which is owned by the same Vancouver-based group that operates Canadian Premier League sides Pacific FC and Vancouver FC through SixFive Sports and Entertainment.

At present, the existing complex’s biggest field can host about 2,000 fans, with capacity set to expand dramatically to about 4,500-5,000 through the addition of new grandstands, a standing terrace, accessible seating, and more.

Editor’s note: It’s worth noting that the league tells us the stadium capacity will land at around 4,500, while the government release estimates 5,000. The exact figure is still to be determined.

While the full stadium details are still to come, SixFive Stadiums plans to install a modular setup that includes supporter and premium seating, suites, and social areas, team facilities, washrooms, and food and beverage facilities, along with FIFA-grade turf, upgraded lighting, and modern amenities for both professional teams and the local Winnipeg soccer community.

The modular setup will allow the stadium to start at a modest capacity of 5,000 and expand alongside the growth of NSL Winnipeg itself.

The federal government is investing up to $2.1 million in the new soccer facility and upgrades to the Ralph Cantafio Soccer Complex through the Direct Delivery stream of the Build Communities Strong Fund, while the Northern Super League itself is contributing the majority of the project with an investment of $5,025,000. The project will receive a further $750,000 from the Province of Manitoba and $600,000 from the City of Winnipeg.

“This is the kind of moment you dream about as a young player,” says NSL Winnipeg co-founder and Vice President Desiree Scott, who retired with Ottawa last year and was one of the driving forces behind the league’s rapid expansion into Manitoba.

“Growing up in Winnipeg, playing on a pitch like this with a professional women’s team to cheer for was something I could only imagine. To see Ralph Cantafio Soccer Complex transformed into a world-class home for our team is an incredibly emotional and proud moment. This stadium is going to be vibrant, loud, and full of energy. I can’t wait to see our community rally behind this team.”

Winnipeg NSL co-founder and Chief Sporting Officer Rob Gale believes that having a permanent home for professional soccer in Winnipeg is a crucial element for the club, the league, and the wider community.

“This is another important step in the evolution of our club and the Northern Super League,” says Robert Gale. “From day one, our ambition has been to build a professional soccer environment that reflects the standards of elite sport and gives players, supporters and our community something to be proud of.”

Gale, who once helmed Winnipeg’s CPL side Valour FC, had firmly insisted that Valour’s old home of Princess Auto Stadium would not sustain a CPL or NSL franchise due to its cavernous stature diminishing the matchday atmosphere.

His goal was to find a central and more intimate venue, with the Ralph Cantafio Soccer Complex ticking both those boxes – particularly given that both the league and government are onboard to fund construction of NSL Winnipeg’s modular stadium.

It’s worth noting this could help pave the way for the Canadian Premier League’s return to the city, too – but that’s a story for another day.

“This new home allows us to raise that standard, bringing the matchday experience closer to the field while creating a facility that can grow with our club and our league. We’re building more than a place to play – we’re building a foundation for the future of professional soccer in Manitoba.”

Northern Super League President Christina Litz was on hand at today’s announcement, stating that the growth of women’s soccer depends on strong partnerships and investment in local soccer infrastructure.

“The NSL is grateful for this funding, which will ensure our players have modern, professional facilities that help Canada attract and retain the best players in the world,” says Litz.

“Beyond elite competition, our league is committed to developing homegrown players and inspiring greatness on and off the pitch. We are excited about what this club, the stadium and the venue enhancements will mean for the Winnipeg sports and soccer community, and for the continued growth of the Northern Super League.”