Denver sports enthusiasts, rejoice! The Mile-High City is gearing up to add a new chapter to its sports legacy with a National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) franchise making its debut in 2026. This groundbreaking announcement comes with an astounding expansion fee of $110 million—shattering previous records for women’s sports teams in the U.S. Buckle up, Denver; the soccer scene is about to get a whole lot more exciting!
A Record-Breaking Franchise Gets Ready to Kick Off
Coming in hot as the league’s 16th team, Denver’s NWSL franchise is already setting the pace before it even hits the field. The eye-popping expansion fee is a real game-changer, more than doubling the last record for an NWSL club. Leading this impressive venture is an ownership group helmed by IMA Financial Group CEO Robert Cohen. Alongside him are noteworthy figures like former Obama administration official Ben Hubbard and former NWSL standout Jordan Angeli. With such heavyweight backing, this franchise is primed for success from the get-go.
Elevating Women’s Soccer in Denver
With a rich history of producing elite women’s soccer talent—including current U.S. Women’s National Team stars like Mallory Swanson, Lindsey Horan, and Sophia Smith—Denver is poised to become a hub for the sport. The new NWSL franchise will not only inspire the next generation of athletes but also provide a vital platform for upcoming talent to shine. It’s a win-win for the soccer community!
As the NWSL franchise prepares to take off, it will solidify its spot among Denver’s existing major professional teams, joining forces with the likes of the Colorado Rockies (MLB), Denver Broncos (NFL), Denver Nuggets (NBA), and Colorado Avalanche (NHL). A fresh energy is on the horizon for Denver’s sports culture, and fans are buzzing with excitement! This new team is set to be the cherry on top of an already vibrant sports city.
With the inaugural season just around the corner, anticipation is mounting for what promises to be a thrilling kickoff in 2026. Denver’s sports community is ready to rally behind this emerging league and show just how passionate Mile-High fans can be. One thing is for sure: this NWSL team is destined to create a significant impact—both on and off the field!