Could Columbus soon become the next hotspot for women's soccer? The prospect of an NWSL team calling Ohio's capital city home is more than just a rumor—it's a conversation gaining serious momentum. Updated as of February 27, 2026, at 7:24 p.m. ET, Crew owners Jimmy and Dee Haslam are actively exploring the possibility of bringing a National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) franchise to Columbus. But here's where it gets intriguing: while the Haslams already own the NFL’s Cleveland Browns, their focus for this potential expansion team is squarely on Columbus, according to a statement from Haslam Sports Group.
"Haslam Sports Group is always on the lookout for strategic investments in sports and entertainment," the statement reads. "We’re thrilled to continue these discussions and carefully evaluate the best path forward for everyone involved. With the explosive growth of women’s sports and the NWSL, the idea of bringing an expansion team to Columbus, Franklin County, and Ohio’s passionate soccer fanbase is incredibly exciting."
And this is the part most people miss: the proposed ownership group isn’t just the Haslams. It’s a powerhouse lineup that includes Columbus-based insurance giant Nationwide, Crew minority-owner Dr. Pete Edwards, and Haslam Sports Group managing partners J.W. Johnson and Whitney Haslam. Nationwide CEO Kirt Walker emphasized the company’s enthusiasm, stating, "We’re honored to partner with the Haslam Sports Group and the Edwards family to bring an NWSL franchise to our hometown. Columbus is a perfect match for an NWSL team. The women’s soccer community here is vibrant, dedicated, and deeply rooted. Plus, the Arena District is already primed to welcome a second professional soccer club."
But here's where it gets controversial: If the expansion team becomes a reality, NWSL matches would likely be held at the Crew’s home stadium, ScottsMiracle-Gro Field, though the teams would maintain separate training facilities. This shared-venue approach raises questions about scheduling, fan experience, and resource allocation—topics sure to spark debate among supporters and critics alike.
The NWSL currently boasts 17 teams, with Atlanta’s $165 million expansion fee setting a league record last November. Columbus is one of several cities vying for the 18th spot, and while an NWSL spokesperson remained tight-lipped about specific bids, they confirmed ongoing discussions with 'world-class potential ownership groups.'
Adding to the buzz, ScottsMiracle-Gro Field is set to host Columbus’s first NWSL event—the Challenge Cup between Gotham FC and Kansas City Current—on June 26. This could be a preview of what’s to come if the expansion bid succeeds.
As this story unfolds, one thing is clear: Columbus is ready to make its case as the next NWSL destination. But what do you think? Is Columbus the ideal city for an NWSL expansion team, or are there better contenders? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your take on this game-changing development.
