The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) will expand to 18 teams by 2028 with the addition of a new Columbus franchise, as announced by the league on April 20, 2026. The expansion group, led by Haslam Sports Group, Nationwide, and Drs. Christine and Pete Edwards, paid a $205 million expansion fee, marking a significant rise from the $2 million fees paid by clubs joining in 2022.
Why Is the NWSL Expansion Fee Rising So Rapidly?
The $205 million fee paid by the Columbus ownership group represents the highest in NWSL history and the second-highest for a North American women’s sports franchise, trailing only the $250 million paid by recent WNBA expansion teams. This surge in valuation reflects the league’s rapid transition into a major commercial enterprise. In 2021, the NWSL consisted of only 10 teams; by 2028, that number will nearly double, signaling a shift toward higher-stakes corporate ownership.
“In this era, you’re always weighing your commitment to a sports team with the reality that they are the playthings of billionaires,” said Crew supporter Morgan Hughes.
How Are Columbus Fans Navigating the New Team?
For many local supporters, the arrival of professional women’s soccer brings both excitement and internal conflict. Emily Kegg, community director for the Nordecke—the supporters’ group that formed during the 2017 “Save the Crew” movement—expressed a desire to support the women’s team with the same passion shown for the men’s club. However, the process of securing the franchise involved controversial public-private partnerships, including a $50 million investment from the city and Franklin County.
What Are the Tensions Surrounding Public Funding and Infrastructure?
The deal to bring the NWSL to Columbus became contentious due to the proposed use of McCoy Park, a 28-acre site originally designated for adaptive sports fields for residents with disabilities. Following public outcry, the city council passed a financing plan on April 20, 2026, that included a commitment to build a replacement park by the end of 2027. Some officials, such as council member Nancy Day-Achauer, voted against the deal, citing concerns over the use of public resources to benefit billionaire owners.
| Factor | Financial Detail |
|---|---|
| Columbus Expansion Fee | $205 million |
| 2022 Expansion Fees | $2 million |
| Public Funding Commitment | $50 million (combined city/county) |
Frequently Asked Questions
- When will the Columbus NWSL team begin play? The club is scheduled to begin official league play in 2028.
- Who owns the new Columbus franchise? The ownership group includes Haslam Sports Group, Nationwide, and Drs. Christine and Pete Edwards.
- How will the city repay the public investment? The city council approved a 2% tax on tickets for all events at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field to repay the $25 million city portion of the funding.
As the league continues its expansion, fans remain focused on ensuring that the growth of women’s soccer aligns with community values. Whether it is through advocating for accessibility or pushing for inclusive team policies, the Columbus fanbase is positioning itself to steer the direction of the new franchise. To stay updated on the latest developments regarding the Columbus NWSL team and other sports news, subscribe to our newsletter or join the conversation in the comments section below.
