The much-anticipated construction of Saskatoon's Canadian Premier League (CPL) soccer stadium has been temporarily halted, casting uncertainty over the city's aspirations to host soccer events. The new stadium was intended to replace the Marquis Downs thoroughbred racetrack at Prairieland Park.

Financial hurdles and economic realities

The decision to put Prairieland Soccer Stadium construction on hold stems from a series of economic challenges. According to Prairieland CEO Dan Kemppainen, the timing for the project, which began several years ago, no longer seems right. The evolving economic landscape, marked by rising interest rates, escalating construction costs, and inflation, has made the venture increasingly challenging. Originally estimated at $28 million, the latest projections for the stadium's construction have surpassed the $30 million mark.

“We were certainly gung ho and optimistic we could make this project happen, but the cost of infrastructure has gone up significantly. You can look around at other projects around the city or province and see how the costs are spiraling out of control. It’s no different for us, too. That plays a big factor.” - Kemppainen explained. Beyond the financial aspects, the project's feasibility also depended on a combination of capital campaigns, private donations, and government funding. Kemppainen emphasized the importance of adapting to changing economic triggers and highlighted that other financial priorities have now taken precedence. Canadians are also aware of such factors, as an increasing number of people are checking the best real money casinos in Canada.

© Prairieland Park / Living Sky Sports and Entertainment Inc. / PCL Constructors Inc. / TBD architecture + urban planning

The future of Prairieland Park and Marquis Downs

The new stadium was intended to replace the Marquis Downs thoroughbred racetrack at Prairieland Park. With the stadium plans now in limbo, questions arise about the future of the racetrack. However, Kemppainen clarified that horse racing, which had been a loss-making venture for years, will not return. Instead, all racing infrastructure is set to be donated to Moosomin Downs, a new racecourse planned northwest of Saskatoon.

Despite the current pause, Kemppainen remains hopeful about the stadium's future. He urged fans and supporters to stay optimistic, hinting at the possibility of revisiting the project when circumstances are more favorable. While the dream of a soccer stadium in Saskatoon may have been deferred, it is far from over.

© Prairieland Park / Living Sky Sports and Entertainment Inc. / PCL Constructors Inc. / TBD architecture + urban planning

The beginnings

In 2017, a local initiative was established to create a professional soccer club in Saskatoon to participate at the highest level of Canadian competition. Leading the initiative was Living Sky Sports and Entertainment Inc. (LSSE), led by one of the initiators of the venture, Alan Simpson.

In March 2021, the Canadian Premier League (CPL) authorities granted LSSE the right to create a new Saskatoon-based team to join the eight-team league. As there was no suitable facility in Saskatoon where the new club could play its games, one of the key challenges was the development of a stadium.