NWSL award newest franchise to Haslam Sports Group and others in Columbus
The new ownership group is expected to pay a $205 million expansion fee, and build a bespoke training facility
COLUMBUS, OHIO - APRIL 21: (From Left) Dr. Christine Edwards, Whitney Haslam, NWSL commissioner Jessica Berman, Columbus mayor Andrew Ginther, Shanon Ginther and Kirt Walker, CEO of Nationwide Insurance, pose for a photograph following an announcement of a new NWSL team in Columbus at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field on April 21, 2026 in Columbus, Ohio. (Photo by Kirk Irwin/NWSL via Getty Images) | NWSL via Getty Images The officially NWSL announced on Tuesday morning that they have named Columbus, Ohio, as the next destination for their newest expansion club.
It will be the 18th club to enter the NWSL, and will reportedly cost a $205 million expansion fee. The Haslam Sports Group lead the ownership group along with the Columbus-based insurance company, Nationwide, and fellow Columbus Crew owners Drs. Christine and Pete Edwards.
HSG also owns controlling stakes in the MLS’ Columbus Crew, the NFL’s Cleveland Browns and the NBA’s Milwaukee Bucks. “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,” said Haslam Sports Group Managing Partner Whitney Haslam Johnson in a statement. “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. ” The new club is expected to begin play by the 2028 season, and will share ScottsMiracle-Gro field with the Columbus Crew.