Washington, D.C. – D.C. United marked the beginning of a new era on Tuesday as the club announced that owner Will Chang will be joined by two new partners.
Erick Thohir and Jason Levien were unveiled as D.C. United's new managing partners, joining the four-time MLS Cup champions in their quest to build a much-needed soccer specific stadium.
"I'd like to borrow a quote form Martin Luther King from his famous speech," Chang said at a press conference Tuesday afternoon. "My first dream for D.C. United is to find a permanent home. The second dream is to turn D.C. United into a global brand. And in Jason and Eric, I've found the perfect partners to fulfill my dreams."
Thohir is a media and entertainment entrepreneur based in Indonesia and was an instrumental piece in helping to bring the Los Angeles Galaxy, the reigning MLS Cup champs, to Indonesia for a 2011 post-season friendly against the country's national team. He is also a co-owner of the Philadelphia 76ers of the National Basketball Association.
"The opportunity to partner with Will [Chang] and Jason [Levien] brings exciting possibilities," Thohir said in a club statement. "I am looking forward to helping with the continued development of D.C. United both on and off he field as well as expanding its reach as a global brand."
Levin is also a co-owner of the 76ers, but has a great deal of personal connection to D.C. having attended Georgetown University and lived in the area for a decade. He previously worked as a sports agent and attorney and as an executive with the Sacramento Kings of the NBA.
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