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Columbus And Billionaire Haslams Land NWSL Expansion Franchise For $205 Million

On Tuesday, the National Women's Soccer League officially awarded its 18th franchise to Columbus, Ohio, with the team set to begin play in 2028 under the Haslam Sports Group.
The Columbus City Council and Franklin County Commissioners approved a combined $50 million in public contributions following a contentious 5-3 council vote on Monday. This infrastructure funding secured the final requirements for the expansion bid.
Controversy emerged regarding the repurposing of McCoy Park, as community opponent Liz Reed stated, "Voting yes gives away a public park to billionaires." Columbus City Council President Shannon Hardin defended the plan as a necessary step for bringing professional soccer to the city.
Paying a $205 million expansion fee, the ownership group will field a team at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field. The group will additionally construct a 45,000 square foot training facility to be completed by 2028.
NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman noted that the league's rolling expansion process allows for flexible growth with no set timeline. Officials expect the Columbus Crew ownership experience to ensure long-term success for the new club.

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Columbus, Franklin official approve public funds for women’s pro soccer team

(The Center Square) The city of Columbus and Franklin County have approved $50 million in public funding for a professional women’s soccer team to start play in the city in 2028.

4 hours ago·United States

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Tribune Chronicle

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Columbus gets the NWSL’s 18th team

Columbus was awarded a National Women’s Soccer League franchise on Tuesday that will begin play in 2028 and bring the league to 18 teams. An ownership group led by the Haslam Sports Group paid an expansion fee of $205 million, a person with knowledge of the deal told The Associated Press. The person spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to disclose the financial details. The Columbus NWSL team will join the league …

13 hours ago·Warren, United States

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