The NWSL has awarded an expansion team to Columbus, Ohio, starting play in 2028, increasing the league to 18 teams. The ownership group, led by Haslam Sports Group, includes figures from the MLS Columbus Crew and NFL's Cleveland Browns. They invested $205 million for the expansion, notably higher than Atlanta's team fee. The Columbus team will use ScottsMiracle-Gro Field and feature a new 45,000-square-foot training facility to support women鈥檚 sports. This initiative marks the first professional women's soccer team in Ohio, reflecting a significant milestone for the sport in the state.

By the Numbers
  • The expansion fee for the Columbus team is $205 million.
  • This is $40 million more than the fee for Atlanta's expansion team.
State of Play
  • Construction on a new training facility and renovations to the stadium will be completed before 2028.
  • The Columbus City Council recently approved funding for facility upgrades despite some local opposition.
What's Next

The Haslam Sports Group will prioritize staff hiring and branding efforts to prepare for the team's launch. Future discussions on additional expansion teams are ongoing, but no concrete timelines have been set. The NWSL will continue to explore potential new markets as it evaluates readiness for new teams.

Bottom Line

The arrival of an NWSL team in Columbus is a historic step for women鈥檚 soccer in Ohio, promising new opportunities and a focus on elevating the league with strategic ownership. This expansion reflects the NWSL's commitment to growth and community engagement, positioning it for future success.