Columbus Awarded NWSL’s 18th Franchise, Set to Begin Play in 2028

The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) officially awarded its 18th franchise to Columbus on Tuesday, with the new team set to join the league in 2028.

Ownership and Expansion Fee

The expansion team will be led by the Haslam Sports Group, which paid a record $205 million expansion fee. The group also owns the NFL’s Cleveland Browns and holds a stake in the NBA’s Milwaukee Bucks. The ownership group includes insurance company Nationwide and Columbus Crew minority owners Pete and Christine Edwards.


League Growth

Columbus will enter the NWSL alongside a new Atlanta franchise, which was awarded the league’s 17th team in November for a reported $165 million. Both teams are scheduled to debut in the 2028 season.


Commissioner’s Statement

NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman welcomed the addition, stating:

“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. We’re excited to bring the world’s most competitive women’s soccer league to Columbus.”

Stadium and Training Facility Plans

The new Columbus NWSL team will share ScottsMiracle-Gro Field with the MLS’ Columbus Crew. The stadium will be renovated to meet the needs of the women’s team. A new dedicated training facility is also planned. The bid includes $50 million in public funding for the facility ($25 million from the city and $25 million from the county). As part of the agreement, the ownership group will contribute to building a new park in an underserved community where the training facility will be located.


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