Today, it was made official that the city of Atlanta has been awarded the latest expansion franchise in the NWSL. The team is set to be owned by Arthur Blank and operated by AMB Sports and Entertainment which includes: Atlanta Falcons (NFL), Atlanta United (MLS) and Atlanta Drive Golf Club (TGL).
According to multiple reports, Blank is set to purchase the Atlanta NWSL expansion team for a league record $165 million. It has also been reported that he plans to invest $330 million into the club.
Arthur
M. Blank: “We are thrilled to bring a National Women’s Soccer League franchise to Atlanta and Georgia and the passionate soccer fans here. We look forward to working with the NWSL and other club owners to continue building the best women’s soccer league in the world and are committed to creating a world-class organization on and off the pitch. Our clear goal is to compete for championships beginning in 2028 and serve as a source of pride for fans in Atlanta, Georgia and the league for decades to come. Our city and state have a deep passion for the game of soccer, and I know our fans will embrace this club as they have Atlanta United.
“I want to thank Commissioner Jessica Berman, NWSL owners and the expansion committee for their trust in awarding Atlanta this opportunity, as well as our executive leadership team for their tireless efforts as we have worked to make this dream a reality. We can’t wait to see our NWSL club take the pitch in 2028.”
NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman: “Atlanta is a city that embodies the energy, diversity, and ambition that define the next chapter of the NWSL. From its passionate fan base to its deep sports culture, Atlanta has all the ingredients to become one of the league’s most dynamic markets. We are thrilled to partner with Arthur Blank and his exceptional team, whose commitment to building world-class organizations and community-driven impact aligns perfectly with our vision for the future of women’s soccer.”
The expansion team will begin play in 2028. Their matches will be played at Mercedes-Benz Stadium (downtown Atlanta) with an expected capacity of 28,000.
Blank is committed to building and investing in a first-class training ground for the club, players, and staff.
The search for leadership and staff has already begun.
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens: “The arrival of women’s professional soccer is about creating opportunity for players, staffers, and fans. And on a personal note, it makes me so happy to know that a generation of our daughters will now get to watch female athletes chase their dreams on the pitch. Progress has always been a part of Atlanta’s DNA. Whether it has been equity in opportunity, innovation in design or unity through community, Atlanta is proud to show the world how inclusion can fuel growth. Thank you to Arthur Blank for again showing us what it looks like when we move Atlanta forward, together.”
U.S. Soccer President Cindy Parlow Cone: “Atlanta has been a leader in shaping the future of soccer in this country, and the launch of a NWSL team is another incredible step forward. Arthur has been a consistent and passionate supporter of soccer at every level, and his investment to bring an expansion team here reinforces the unmistakable rising potential of women’s soccer. With world-class facilities, passionate fans, and a community that believes in the power of the game to unite and inspire, Atlanta will set a new standard for what’s possible in professional women’s soccer.”
