Major League Soccer (MLS) team FC Cincinnati has released the first stage of renderings depicting its soon-to-be-built sports arena.

The up to 26,500-person capacity stadium is being designed by Meis Architects, who have been attached to the project since 2017.

Among other things, the proposed multi-million-dollar structure will feature Ethylene Tetrafluoro-ethylene (ETFE) foil technology to illuminate the building’s roof facades, as well as expanded seating, club, and suite areas.

The stadium will also have a retractable canopy to serve as a noise buffer.

"We know that the design process will continue and our final product will likely continue to evolve, but we are proud to share our updated plans," said FC Cincinnati president and general manager Jeff Berding.

"We believe our West End stadium will be a catalyst for the neighbourhood."

Community members and administrators will have a chance to comment on the designs on 19 November, when project organisers present a full concept plan to the City of Cincinnati.

Additional, more finalised renderings are expected to be released towards the end of 2018 before construction commences in Spring 2019.

The stadium is scheduled to open in March 2021.