Columbus, Ohio is making a strong bid to become the next home for a National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) franchise, potentially joining the league as early as 2028. The move comes after Atlanta was announced as the NWSL’s 17th team last November, with a record-setting $165 million bid.
Columbus’s Potential for an NWSL Team
The city recently showcased its potential during the SheBelieves Cup, hosting matches between Colombia and Argentina, and the U.S. And Canada at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field, home of the Columbus Crew. U.S. Forward Emma Sears, a native of Ohio, expressed her enthusiasm for the possibility of a Columbus-based NWSL team, noting the city’s strong infrastructure and supportive fanbase.
On February 27, the Haslam Sports Group (HSG), led by Dee and Jimmy Haslam, announced its intent to pursue an NWSL franchise. HSG already owns the Cleveland Browns of the NFL and the Columbus Crew in MLS, and co-owns the Milwaukee Bucks.
The ownership group likewise includes J.W. Johnson and Whitney Haslam Johnson, HSG’s managing partners, as well as the insurance company Nationwide. HSG stated that it has begun exploratory conversations with the NWSL and is excited to assess the possibility of bringing a team to Columbus.
NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman announced in September that the league would move away from a fixed expansion timeline, opting for a more fluid, ongoing process. While Columbus was not among the finalists in the previous expansion round—which included Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Denver—it shares similar characteristics, including a growing and diverse population and relatively affordable real estate.
According to a source with knowledge of the Columbus expansion efforts, a new NWSL team would coexist with the Crew, sharing ScottsMiracle-Gro Field. Plans are already underway for a state-of-the-art training facility for the prospective NWSL team.
U.S. Women’s National Team head coach Emma Hayes also expressed optimism about the possibility of a Columbus NWSL franchise, citing the city’s strong soccer history.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of NWSL expansion?
The NWSL announced Atlanta as its 17th franchise in November and is operating with a more fluid expansion process, according to Commissioner Jessica Berman.
Who is leading the effort to bring an NWSL team to Columbus?
The Haslam Sports Group (HSG), led by Dee and Jimmy Haslam, is spearheading the effort, in partnership with Nationwide and the Edwards and Johnson families.
When could Columbus potentially join the NWSL?
The current plan, according to a league source, is for the Columbus team to begin play in 2028 alongside Atlanta.
Will the enthusiasm demonstrated at recent international matches translate into support for a potential NWSL team in Columbus?