LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — Las Vegas Lights FC announced Tuesday that the team is parting ways with its head coach, Antonio Nocerino.
The decision came after a discussion with Sporting Director Gianleonardo Neglia after this past weekend’s match. Nocerino will be stepping away from his position as head coach and a search for the club’s next head coach is underway, according to a Tuesday press release.
“I am grateful for Antonio’s contributions to this club since joining ahead of the 2025 season,” said Sporting Director Gianleonardo Neglia. “We agreed that now is the right time for Antonio to step away as we sit one point out of the playoff positions. I appreciate his professionalism throughout his time in Las Vegas and wish him the best in his next opportunity.”
Assistant Coach Giovanni Troise is set to lead the team in training ahead of Saturday’s home match against Monterey Bay FC.
Former MLB All-Star José Bautista acquired the Las Vegas Lights FC in 2024 after he bought the team from Brett Lashbrook.
The team’s home, Cashman Center, was sold to national homebuilder Lennar in March after the City of Las Vegas unanimously approved the sale. The team has a lease agreement to play at Cashman for the current season and next year’s season. As for the following seasons, Bautista said he has spoken with state, county, and city leaders about his stadium plans.