Fort Lauderdale embraces David Beckham for Lockhart deal

The city of Fort Lauderdale embraced soccer legend David Beckham’s vision for Lockhart Stadium, taking the first step Tuesday toward a soccer revival for the storied property.

“It’s a great day for Fort Lauderdale,” Commissioner Ben Sorensen said during Tuesday’s discussion, citing the multimillion-dollar private investment.

Commissioners unanimously ranked Beckham’s proposal No. 1, over a rival proposal from FXE Futbol. The ranking will be ratified with a vote Tuesday night.

Commissioner Heather Moraitis said the northern part of the city, her district, desperately needs a signature park, and she said the Beckham proposal offers the best opportunity for that. It also gives young soccer players the chance to watch their athletic heroes play.

Miami Beckham United includes David and Victoria Beckham, Jorge Mas and his brother, Jose Mas, of MasTech, a $7 billion engineering and construction company; Marcelo Claure and Masayoshi Son of SoftBank Group, and Simon Fuller, a TV producer and talent manager.

The city paid $12 million for the land two years ago, Trantalis said. An effort to bring a commercial water park to the property collapsed last year.

This story will be updated. Please check back.

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