Tim Bezbatchenko, former Columbus Crew president, is advocating for the introduction of promotion and relegation (pro/rel) in American soccer. Now leading Black Knight Football, which includes Premier League club AFC Bournemouth, Bezbatchenko has a history of success with Toronto FC and Columbus Crew in Major League Soccer (MLS).
- Bezbatchenko supports pro/rel to enhance competition in American soccer.
- He has a successful track record with Toronto FC and Columbus Crew in MLS.
- Bezbatchenko’s leadership has led to significant achievements in MLS.
Bezbatchenko’s Advocacy for Pro/Rel
Tim Bezbatchenko, a key figure in American soccer, recently voiced his support for a promotion and relegation system in the United States. He believes this change could boost competition and engagement, similar to European leagues. His views were shared in a tweet by journalist Tom Bogert, where Bezbatchenko stated, “The easy answer is pro/rel. You see the benefit of having that.”
Former Columbus Crew president Tim Bezbatchenko, if he could make one change to American soccer:
“The easy answer is pro/rel. You see the benefit of having that.”
Bez is president of Black Knight Football, a multi-club ownership group, including Premier League side Bournemouth.
— Tom Bogert (@tombogert)
October 21, 2024
Bezbatchenko’s experience in MLS, especially with Toronto FC and Columbus Crew, highlights his understanding of the league’s dynamics and growth potential. Under his leadership, Toronto FC achieved a domestic treble in 2017, and Columbus Crew won MLS Cup titles in 2020 and 2023. These accomplishments underscore his ability to drive success and innovation, making his pro/rel advocacy a significant proposal for American soccer’s future.
Transition to Black Knight Football
Bezbatchenko’s move to Black Knight Football marks a new phase in his career. As president of this sports portfolio owned by Bill Foley, he manages several clubs, including AFC Bournemouth in the Premier League. This strategic shift extends his influence from MLS to international football, reflecting a trend of multi-club ownership models. These models promote resource sharing and talent development across leagues, a vision Bezbatchenko is well-prepared to implement given his past successes.
For more insights on AFC Bournemouth and their performance, visit AFC Bournemouth Updates. Additionally, explore the dynamics of Major League Soccer, where Bezbatchenko has made significant contributions, at MLS Insights.
Global Football Connections
The global nature of football is further highlighted by recent player movements and regulatory changes. The European Court of Justice’s ruling in the Lassana Diarra case challenges existing transfer regulations, potentially affecting clubs and players across Europe. This development emphasizes the need for systems that align with legal standards, similar to discussions around football governance and promotion/relegation systems. For further details on this ruling, see Lassana Diarra Ruling.
Moreover, player transfers like Neyder Moreno’s move to Auckland FC in the A-League and Jesé Rodríguez’s transition to Johor Darul Ta’zim F.C. highlight the interconnectedness of global football markets. These moves reflect the strategic importance of building international club connections, a focus area for Black Knight Football’s multi-club approach. For more on these transfers, explore Neyder Moreno Joins Auckland FC and Jesé Rodríguez’s Career Move.
Bezbatchenko’s journey from MLS to a global role illustrates the evolving landscape of football management, with an emphasis on strategic growth and international collaboration.
