Chivas USA ceases operations as MLS plans new L.A. strategy

Oct 27, 2014 - 6:19 PM Carson, CA (SportsNetwork.com) - Major League Soccer commissioner Don Garber announced on Monday that Chivas USA will cease operations immediately, and that on Thursday, the league will announce a new MLS Los Angeles club and ownership group.

The new club will begin play in the 2017 season after a decision on Chivas USA was made unanimously by the MLS Board of Governors.

"As part of our new strategy for Southern California -- a major hotbed of soccer participation and fan support -- we believe that engaging with a new ownership group which has the resources and local community ties, and a plan for a dedicated soccer-specific stadium, provides us with the best chance for success," said Garber.

As a result of the decision, the league will play with 20 clubs next season after the addition of New York City FC and Orlando City SC.

The 2015 season will feature a new conference alignment, with the Houston Dynamo and Sporting Kansas City moving to the Western Conference, while Orlando and New York City will join the East.

MLS has also confirmed that the league will conduct a Dispersal Draft of the Chivas USA roster in the near future.