Pro soccer stadium to be built at new Pinnacle Hills location

The Rogers-based club looking to bring men’s and women’s professional soccer teams to Northwest Arkansas plans to build its stadium at a different site but still in the Pinnacle Hills area.

Ozark United FC is under contract for a new stadium site. According to a news release, the club determined its original site was not large enough to meet fan expectations for “an enhanced game-day experience, expanded amenities and sufficient parking. The new site allows the club to better deliver on its commitment to building for the future.”

In July 2023, the club announced plans to establish men’s and women’s soccer teams, build a 5,000-seat stadium in Rogers, and begin play in 2026. The stadium was to be built on 11.5 acres at the southwest corner of Lazy L Street and Bellview Road, north of Pinnacle Hills Promenade. The club had secured the land through an agreement with Rogers philanthropist Johnelle Hunt, the landowner.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed, but the club was expected to purchase the land.

While it continues to work toward the goal of launching its inaugural season in 2026, plans to relocate to a new site and the expanded scope might push this to 2027. Details regarding the groundbreaking and stadium developments will be announced in the coming months.

“We are grateful to the Hunt family for their generosity and support in providing the initial site in Pinnacle Hills,” said Warren Smith, co-founder of Ozark United FC. “Their partnership was instrumental in getting us to this point, and we remain grateful for their role in helping bring professional soccer to Northwest Arkansas. This pivot represents an exciting step forward in our journey.”

Community input played a key role in the decision. The club received feedback from nine focus groups, 16 listening sessions and over 500 one-on-one conversations that revealed the need for a larger site – one that could accommodate the stadium, allow for expansion and include surrounding amenities “to fulfill fans’ vision of a true community destination,” the release shows.

“Our fans and stakeholders have been clear about their aspirations for this club,” said co-founder Chris Martinovic. “This new site not only addresses those needs but also positions us to deliver an unmatched game-day experience. By prioritizing accessibility, parking, and opportunities for future expansion, we are building not just for today but for the future of professional soccer in Northwest Arkansas.”

The organization declined to disclose the address of the new location “as the final details are being negotiated and initial site planning is underway,” the release shows. “This approach ensures the club can finalize agreements with key stakeholders and prioritize the needs of fans and the community.”

One of the new site’s advantages noted in the release was the “convenient access to Interstate 49, ensuring better ingress and egress for fans.”

According to the release, the club’s boys U20 Academy team completed its first season in November and made the playoffs. Ozark United FC also noted its commitment to advance opportunities for women and girls in soccer, with more details to be announced in 2025.