NWSL commissioner set to make 'major soccer announcement' in Columbus
The Columbus Dispatch • • sports
Key Points:
- NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman will hold a press conference in Columbus on April 21 to announce a major development regarding the league's 18th franchise.
- Haslam Sports Group, led by Crew majority owners Jimmy and Dee Haslam, has submitted a bid to bring the new NWSL team to Columbus, with potential ownership including Nationwide and other local investors.
- The franchise, if approved, is expected to debut in 2028 and play home games at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field alongside the Columbus Crew.
- Franklin County Commissioners and Columbus City Council have pledged a combined $50 million in public funds to build a training facility at McCoy Park and upgrade ScottsMiracle-Gro Field, with repayment tied to a 2% ticket tax and a 25-year team commitment to Columbus.
- Columbus is currently the only city publicly confirmed to have a bid for the NWSL expansion team, with the press conference set for 3:30 p.m. on April 21.
