Full Breakdown
Columbus Awarded NWSL's 18th Franchise Set to Debut in 2028
4/22/2026, 10:02:38 PM
Key Details of the Expansion Franchise
The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) has officially awarded its 18th franchise to Columbus, Ohio, with plans for the team to begin play in 2028. The announcement was made on April 21, 2026, by NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman, alongside representatives from the ownership group led by Haslam Sports Group, which also owns the Columbus Crew of Major League Soccer (MLS) and the Cleveland Browns of the NFL. The franchise will share ScottsMiracle-Gro Field with the Crew, which has a seating capacity of 20,000.
The ownership group has committed to a record-breaking expansion fee of $205 million, surpassing the previous high of $165 million paid by the Atlanta franchise, which will also debut in 2028. This fee reflects the growing interest and investment in women's sports, particularly in the NWSL, which has seen its expansion fees increase dramatically from $2 million just a few years ago.
Infrastructure and Community Impact
As part of the expansion, the Haslam Sports Group plans to build a state-of-the-art training facility for the NWSL team at McCoy Park, located in a historically underserved neighborhood. This decision has drawn criticism from local residents who feel that the park's planned renovations for community use, including adaptive sports fields, have been sacrificed for the new facility. In response to these concerns, the ownership group has pledged $3 million toward the development of a new public park to replace McCoy Park.
Columbus City Council approved $25 million in public funding for the training facility, matched by Franklin County, as part of a public-private partnership aimed at enhancing local sports infrastructure. Berman emphasized the importance of community support in securing the franchise, stating that the city’s rich soccer history and proven fan engagement were key factors in the decision.
Financial Implications and Future Prospects
The NWSL's expansion to Columbus is part of a broader strategy to grow the league, which has doubled in size over the past six years. The league's current average team valuation stands at approximately $200 million, reflecting a significant increase in interest and investment in women's soccer. The upcoming media rights negotiations, expected to yield higher revenues, further bolster the league's financial outlook.
The Haslam Sports Group's involvement is seen as a strategic advantage, leveraging their experience in managing sports franchises to enhance the NWSL's profile. Whitney Haslam Johnson, managing partner of the group, expressed excitement about the potential impact of the team on the community and women's sports in general.
Criticism and Community Concerns
Despite the enthusiasm surrounding the franchise, local residents have voiced concerns regarding the loss of community park space and the rapid decision-making process that led to the expansion. Amanda Runyon Lynch, a local resident, criticized the decision as rushed and detrimental to the community's needs. Southwest Area Commissioner Liz Reed echoed these sentiments, calling the loss of park renovations a significant setback for the neighborhood.
Conclusion
The Columbus NWSL team represents a significant milestone for women's soccer in Ohio and reflects the growing momentum of the NWSL. While the expansion is celebrated by many, it also highlights the complexities of community engagement and the balancing act required in public-private partnerships. As the league prepares for its 2028 debut, the focus will be on ensuring that the new franchise not only thrives on the field but also positively impacts the local community.
