NWSL Announces Columbus as League's 18th Team with Record $205 Million Expansion Fee
The National Women's Soccer League has officially announced Columbus, Ohio as the location for its next expansion franchise, marking a significant milestone in the league's growth trajectory. The announcement confirms Columbus will become the NWSL's 18th team, with a scheduled start date of 2028.
Record-Breaking Financial Investment
According to multiple reports, the expansion fee for the Columbus franchise stands at an unprecedented $205 million, setting a new benchmark for the NWSL. This figure represents a substantial increase over the previous high of $165 million paid by the Atlanta franchise owned by Arthur Blank. The Columbus fee even surpasses what most Major League Soccer ownership groups have paid to enter that league, with only Charlotte FC and San Diego FC having invested more.
Ownership and Stadium Details
The Columbus NWSL team will be owned by the same consortium that operates the Columbus Crew of Major League Soccer, led by Haslam Sports Group. HSG also owns the Cleveland Browns of the NFL and holds a stake in the NBA's Milwaukee Bucks. The yet-to-be-named team will play its home matches at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field, the 20,000-seat stadium that currently serves as home to the Columbus Crew.
NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman emphasized the strategic importance of the Columbus expansion, stating: "As the NWSL continues its rapid growth, expanding to Columbus is a natural next step. This is a city with a rich soccer tradition, a proven track record of support at the highest level, and an ownership group making meaningful, long-term investments in women's sports."
Infrastructure and Community Investments
As part of the expansion agreement, Haslam Sports Group has committed to modifying ScottsMiracle-Gro Field to include a dedicated locker room specifically for the NWSL team. Additionally, the ownership group has reached an agreement with the Columbus City Council to construct a training facility on city parkland.
This training facility arrangement has generated some controversy, as the selected park was scheduled for renovation and is located near underserved communities. In response to community concerns, HSG has agreed to contribute $3 million toward the construction of a new public park as part of the training facility deal.
NWSL Expansion Momentum
The Columbus announcement comes during a period of significant growth for the NWSL, with eight teams having joined the league since 2020. The most recent additions, Boston Legacy and Denver Summit, began play this year, with the Summit setting a new league attendance record when more than 63,000 fans attended their inaugural home opener in March.
The Columbus franchise will begin play in the same year as the incoming Atlanta franchise, creating two new markets for the league in 2028. This expansion reflects the NWSL's continued commitment to broadening its geographic footprint and increasing investment in women's professional soccer across the United States.
