In a groundbreaking move that’s sending shockwaves through the world of women’s soccer, the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) has officially awarded its 16th franchise to the Mile High City of Denver, Colorado. The expansion deal, which closed at a staggering $110 million, marks the highest franchise fee in the league’s history and signifies a major vote of confidence in the future of American women’s soccer.
Denver Secures Its Place in Women’s Soccer History
The Denver franchise, spearheaded by a powerhouse ownership group led by IMA Financial CEO Rob Cohen, emerged victorious from a heated bidding war that included finalist cities Cleveland and Cincinnati. By plunking down the record-setting $110 million entry fee, Denver has made it clear that they’re all-in on building a world-class women’s soccer organization from the ground up.
As the NWSL continues its rapid growth, we knew it was critical to launch our 16th team in a city with a passionate sports culture and vibrant fan base – and Denver is the perfect match.
– NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman
Commissioner Berman’s endorsement underscores the NWSL’s strategic vision for expansion, targeting markets with a proven track record of enthusiastic support for local sports teams. With Denver’s fervent fan culture and the region’s growing appetite for soccer, the Mile High City ticked all the boxes for a flagship franchise.
A New Era for Women’s Soccer in the Rockies
For Denver’s ownership group, securing the NWSL franchise is just the first step in a bold vision to elevate women’s soccer in the Rocky Mountain region. The organization has already unveiled ambitious plans to construct a purpose-built soccer stadium and state-of-the-art training facilities, underscoring their commitment to providing the best possible resources and environment for its players and fans.
Being around the sports world, I heard about the grassroots effort around bringing a soccer team to Denver. I met with that group and the more I started to learn about what they were thinking, what their vision was, set me on a journey to start learning about the league, what they were doing, to the point where ultimately wanted to lead the bid and hopefully bring a team to Denver, which we’re now doing.
– Rob Cohen, Denver NWSL CEO
Cohen’s journey from curious observer to franchise CEO is a testament to the magnetic appeal and growth potential of women’s soccer in the United States. His leadership, combined with the deep pockets and diverse expertise of the Denver ownership group, positions the team to make an immediate impact both on and off the pitch.
Elevating the NWSL to New Heights
Denver’s arrival marks a new chapter in the NWSL’s ambitious expansion plans, building on the momentum of recent team additions in Los Angeles (Angel City FC) and Bay FC. The league, which kicked off in 2013 with just eight teams, has steadily grown to become a 16-team powerhouse showcasing the world’s top women’s soccer talent.
- 2013: NWSL launches with 8 teams
- 2023: Boston awarded 15th franchise at $53M expansion fee
- 2024: Bay FC completes inaugural season at $53M expansion fee
- 2025: Denver lands 16th franchise at record $110M expansion fee
The skyrocketing franchise valuations reflect the soaring popularity and commercial potential of women’s soccer, both in the United States and globally. As more investors recognize the opportunity to get in on the ground floor of a fast-growing sports property, competition for future expansion slots is expected to be fierce.
The Future Is Bright in the Mile High City
For soccer fans in Denver and beyond, the arrival of a new NWSL team is a dream come true. With a world-class stadium on the horizon, an experienced ownership group at the helm, and a passionate fan base eager to embrace their new hometown heroes, all the pieces are in place for Denver to become a dominant force in women’s soccer for years to come.
As the league continues its rapid expansion and the sport’s popularity soars to new heights, one thing is clear: the future of women’s soccer is looking brighter than ever, and Denver is poised to play a starring role in this exciting new era. With the Mile High City now firmly on the NWSL map, fans across the country will be watching closely to see how this record-breaking expansion team writes its chapter in the annals of American soccer history.
