Columbus lands NWSL expansion, targeting 2028 debut

Columbus was awarded the NWSL’s 18th franchise, set to debut in 2028 with home games at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field. The ownership group is led by Jimmy and Dee Haslam alongside Nationwide and other partners, and the city of Columbus and Franklin County will each contribute $25 million toward a new training facility and stadium upgrades, financed by bonds repaid with a 2% ticket tax; the team must stay in Columbus for 25 years or funds can be clawed back. The deal includes a reported $205 million expansion fee (a league record) and an expected $300+ million total investment. The franchise will be referred to as Columbus NWSL 2028 until fans help choose a final name, with $28 deposits for tickets available online; a last-minute amendment required identifying a replacement site for McCoy Park if needed.