What's Happening?
The National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) has awarded an expansion franchise to Columbus, Ohio, with the ownership led by the Haslam Sports Group. The new team is set to begin play in 2028, alongside another new team in Atlanta, bringing the league to a total
of 18 teams. The Columbus franchise will play at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field, which will undergo renovations to accommodate the team. The Haslam Sports Group, which also owns the Columbus Crew of Major League Soccer and the NFL's Cleveland Browns, will pay a $205 million expansion fee. This expansion is part of a broader trend of rapid growth in the NWSL, which has seen its number of teams nearly double since 2021.
Why It's Important?
The addition of a new NWSL team in Columbus signifies a significant investment in women's sports, highlighting the growing popularity and financial viability of women's soccer in the United States. The $205 million expansion fee underscores the increasing value of NWSL franchises, reflecting a broader trend of rising investment in women's sports. This development is also a testament to the importance of public-private partnerships, as the city of Columbus and Franklin County are contributing $50 million towards infrastructure. The expansion could stimulate local economic growth, increase community engagement, and enhance the visibility of women's sports on a national level.
What's Next?
The Columbus NWSL team will begin play in 2028, with preparations including the renovation of ScottsMiracle-Gro Field and the construction of a new training facility. The team's name and branding are still under development. The NWSL is also considering a shift to a fall-to-spring calendar, a decision that could be influenced by the addition of Columbus, a cold-weather market. The league's board of governors is expected to vote on this potential schedule change soon. The success of the Columbus franchise could influence future expansion decisions and the overall strategy of the NWSL.
