Portland Timbers

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the Portland Timbers?

The Portland Timbers are a professional soccer team based in Portland, Oregon, competing in Major League Soccer (MLS). Known for their passionate fan base

When did the Portland Timbers become an MLS team?

The Portland Timbers became an official Major League Soccer (MLS) team in 2011. Their entry into the league marked a significant milestone for both the city of Portland and the broader Pacific Northwest soccer community. The MLS awarded Portland an expansion franchise in 2009, with the team making its debut in the 2011 season. Since joining MLS, the Portland Timbers have rapidly established themselves as a competitive force, building on a soccer legacy that dates back to the original Timbers team of the North American Soccer League (NASL) in the 1970s. The club quickly gained a reputation for passionate fan support, sold-out home games at Providence Park, and intense regional rivalries, particularly with the Seattle Sounders and Vancouver Whitecaps. The transition to MLS elevated the Timbers' profile, helping to grow soccer's popularity in Oregon and throughout the United States.

Are Portland Timbers good?

The Portland Timbers are widely regarded as one of the most successful and competitive teams in Major League Soccer (MLS). Since joining the league in 2011, the Timbers have consistently qualified for the MLS Cup Playoffs and have built a reputation for strong performances, both in the regular season and postseason. The club's crowning achievement came in 2015 when they won their first MLS Cup, defeating Columbus Crew SC in the final. The Timbers have also reached the MLS Cup Final multiple times, including a runner-up finish in 2018 and 2021. Their success is driven by talented players, strategic coaching, and unwavering support from the Timbers Army. In addition to on-field accomplishments, the Portland Timbers are known for their player development programs and community outreach. Overall, the Timbers are considered a top-tier MLS team, respected for their competitive edge, passionate fan base, and lasting contributions to American soccer.

Who owns the Portland Timbers?

The Portland Timbers are owned by Peregrine Sports LLC, a sports ownership group led by Merritt Paulson. Merritt Paulson has served as the face of the ownership group and is highly involved in the team's operations and community initiatives. Peregrine Sports also owns the Portland Thorns FC, the city's National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) team, further cementing their commitment to growing soccer in the region. Merritt Paulson, the son of former U.S. Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson, played a pivotal role in bringing MLS to Portland in 2011 and has since overseen the club's rise to prominence. Under his leadership, the Timbers have invested in player development, stadium improvements, and fan engagement, making Providence Park one of the premier soccer venues in North America. The ownership's dedication to excellence both on and off the field has been instrumental in the Timbers' sustained success and popularity.

How much do Portland Timbers players make?

Portland Timbers players' salaries vary widely, reflecting experience, role, and designated player status under MLS rules. As of the 2023 season, the average salary for a Timbers player is estimated to be between $250,000 to $350,000 annually. However, top earners