What's Happening?
Tim Bezbatchenko has been appointed as the president of global soccer for the Haslam Sports Group, where he will oversee all sporting decisions for the Columbus Crew of Major League Soccer (MLS) and a new National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) team set
to launch in Columbus in 2028. Bezbatchenko, who previously served as president and general manager of the Crew, returns to Columbus after expanding his experience with Black Knight Football. His role will include spearheading the construction of the NWSL team's staff and roster. The Crew, under his previous leadership, won MLS Cup titles in 2020 and 2023. Bezbatchenko will report to managing partners Dee and Jimmy Haslam and work alongside other key executives to unify the men's and women's teams in Columbus.
Why It's Important?
Bezbatchenko's return to Columbus is significant as it marks a strategic move to strengthen the city's soccer presence by integrating both MLS and NWSL teams under unified leadership. This development is poised to enhance the sports culture in Columbus, potentially increasing fan engagement and economic activity related to soccer. The Haslam Sports Group's investment in both men's and women's soccer reflects a broader trend of growing support for women's sports, which could lead to increased visibility and opportunities for female athletes. The move also underscores the importance of experienced leadership in achieving competitive success, as evidenced by Bezbatchenko's past achievements with the Crew.
What's Next?
The immediate focus for Bezbatchenko will be to build the NWSL team's infrastructure, including hiring a general manager and head coach. The Columbus Crew is also in search of a new head coach following recent changes. As the NWSL team prepares for its debut in 2028, there will likely be increased collaboration between the men's and women's teams to create a cohesive soccer strategy for Columbus. The Haslam Sports Group's commitment to soccer in Columbus suggests potential future investments in facilities and community engagement initiatives to support the sport's growth.
