Columbus NWSL Expansion Team Joins League as 18th Franchise

Columbus NWSL expansion team is officially set to become the 18th franchise in the National Women’s Soccer League, following a major announcement at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field. This marks a significant milestone for both the city and the NWSL, as Columbus prepares to join the league alongside Atlanta in the spring of 2028.

Columbus NWSL Expansion Team Officially Announced

On April 21, 2026, soccer fans in Columbus celebrated as the city was awarded the latest NWSL expansion team. The announcement, made live at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field—a 21,700-seat stadium located in the heart of downtown—solidifies Columbus’s position as a growing hub for soccer. The expansion highlights the league’s deliberate strategy to bring professional women’s soccer to thriving sports markets across the United States.

Columbus joins recent expansion locations such as Boston, Denver, and Atlanta. Both Columbus and Atlanta are scheduled to kick off their inaugural NWSL seasons in spring 2028, further diversifying the league’s presence across the country.

Ownership and Vision: Haslam Family Leads the Charge

The Columbus NWSL expansion team will be owned and operated by Haslam Sports Group, the influential organization behind the Columbus Crew (MLS), Cleveland Browns (NFL), and Milwaukee Bucks (NBA). Dee and Jimmy Haslam, along with managing partners Whitney Haslam Johnson and JW Johnson, will oversee the new club’s strategic direction.

The Haslams’ leadership and commitment to soccer in Ohio are widely seen as a positive force. Their track record with the Columbus Crew and other professional franchises suggests the new NWSL team will benefit from stability, investment, and a strong connection to the local community.

Stadium Upgrades for a Premier NWSL Experience

ScottsMiracle-Gro Field, already home to the Columbus Crew, will undergo targeted renovations before the NWSL team’s debut. Planned upgrades include dedicated locker rooms and enhanced infrastructure tailored to the needs of the women’s club, ensuring a first-class environment for players and fans alike.

Why Columbus? A Proven Soccer City

The NWSL’s decision to award an expansion team to Columbus is rooted in the city’s established passion for soccer. With a fanbase that consistently supports the Columbus Crew and a stadium that meets international standards, Columbus was a natural choice for the league’s continued growth.

As NWSL Commissioner stated, “The addition of Columbus, a proven soccer market with passionate fans and world-class infrastructure, reflects the continued acceleration of interest in the NWSL and in women’s sports broadly.” The league’s confidence in Columbus is mirrored by the ownership group and the city’s soccer community.

Expansion Fee Sets New Record

Sportico reported that the Haslam Sports Group paid $205 million for the Columbus NWSL expansion team, surpassing Atlanta’s previous high of $165 million. This investment underscores the rising value and growing popularity of women’s professional soccer in the United States.

NWSL’s Intentional Expansion Strategy

The NWSL’s expansion into Columbus aligns with its broader approach to grow the league intentionally in strong, supportive markets. The presence of a committed ownership group and a ready-made fanbase both contribute to the league’s upward trajectory.

The addition of Boston, Denver, Atlanta, and now Columbus highlights a focus on sustainability and long-term success. The league’s goal is not only to increase the number of teams but to ensure each franchise is positioned for competitive and commercial viability.

Looking Ahead to 2028: What Fans Can Expect

With the Columbus NWSL expansion team slated to debut in 2028, local fans can look forward to the arrival of elite women’s soccer and the opportunity to support the growth of the sport. The team’s introduction is expected to bring increased visibility to women’s athletics in Ohio and inspire a new generation of players and supporters.

In preparation, Haslam Sports Group will work closely with the city, existing soccer organizations, and the NWSL to ensure a seamless launch. Renovations to the stadium and the development of team infrastructure will be key priorities in the coming years.

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Opinion: A Defining Moment for Women’s Soccer in Columbus

The Columbus NWSL expansion team marks a transformative step for both the city and women’s soccer in America. With experienced ownership, a dedicated local fanbase, and a world-class stadium, Columbus is poised to become a beacon for the women’s game. This move not only elevates the league but also signals the growing prominence and commercial appeal of women’s sports nationwide. The future looks bright for the NWSL and Columbus soccer.