Columbus named ‘next chapter’ in NWSL history as 18th expansion franchise announced

ScottsMiracle-Gro Field will be the home of Columbus' NWSL team -Credit:Kirk Irwin/NWSL via Getty Images

“Our family is thrilled to help bring an NWSL team to Columbus and further invest in Ohio, with the honor of bringing the 18th team into the league,” HSG managing partner Whitney Haslam Johnson said.

“We believe in the power of women’s sports and are humbled to be part of the number one women’s soccer league in the world. Sports are one of today’s greatest unifiers and are incredible for their communities. The NWSL will have a significant impact on Columbus within and beyond sports, now and for future generations.”

Meanwhile, Dr. Christine Edwards also released a statement, saying, “Columbus is very important to our family. For over 30 years, we’ve supported the Columbus Crew and MLS.

“We’ve seen how a men’s professional soccer team has brought people together and created a positive impact in our community. It's truly special to now welcome an NWSL club and the incredible women athletes who will also uplift our city on and off the pitch.

“We're very excited to partner with Haslam Sports Group and Nationwide for NWSL Columbus 2028, and we can’t wait to share even more memorable moments with fans, especially during the Club’s first game at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field.”

NWSL commissioner Jessica Berman attended an unveiling ceremony at the soon-to-be home of Columbus’ latest major franchise, where she said the league was “setting a new standard for what's possible in women's soccer, with a powerful signal of where women's sports is headed. Columbus is that next chapter in the story.

“This is a city that has long been at the heart of American soccer, a community that understands the power of sport and the power of community.”

The NWSL’s continued growth was evident in late March when the Summit played its first-ever home game at Empower Field at Mile High, home of the NFL’s Denver Broncos. A one-off appearance at the storied venue, 63,004 fans turned out in support of their newest team, setting a league record.

Denver is set to hit the headlines this summer yet again upon the arrival of U.S. Women’s National Team captain Lindsey Heaps, who will be joining her home state team upon the expiration of her deal with French giants OL Lyonnes.