Beckham backs Miami football stadium project

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  The stadium is said to be a part of Beckham’s ambitious plans to expand football in America. Reuters

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  Beckham, third from left, poses with MLS commissioner Don Garber, left, Miami-Dade County mayor Carlos Gimenez, right, and football fans with the Southern Legion at a news conference where he announced he will exercise his option to purchase an MLS team. Lynne Sladky / AP Photo

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  Beckham talks to reporters at Miami Dade College in downtown Miami. The former Manchester United player is hoping to get built a 25,000-seat, open-air stadium with views of the bay and the downtown skyline. Zachary Johnson / Reuters

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  Beckham was an integral part of the Los Angeles Galaxy during his time in MLS. Wilfredo Lee / AP Photo

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  The group backed by Beckham is lobbying for the arena seated in between Biscayne Bay and downtown Miami. Reuters

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  The downside to the project is cruise operators have raised concerns about traffic problems if the stadium receives the go-ahead. Reuters

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  Football as a sport has expanded its footprint in the United States over the past decade especially since the arrival of Beckham from across the Atlantic. Wilfredo Lee / AP Photo