Why Denver’s NWSL franchise is making waves across women’s soccer | OneFootball

Denver has been chosen as the newest home for women's soccer in the United States, landing the 16th NWSL franchise. If that wasn't enough, it was an entry in truly record style: the city of Colorado paid a barrier-breaking $110 million to set a new standard for professional women's sports in the country.

Now, the question begs: what does this expansion mean to the league and the sport? Let's break it down.

An investment beyond the numbers

That's more than double the previous NWSL record of $110 million paid by Denver. It is a number that speaks not just of business, but also of confidence in the growth of women's soccer in the United States. Compared to the $53 million paid by Boston in 2023 or Bay FC in 2022, Denver is making a real statement.

But it is not just a question of money. This record amount signals recognition that women's soccer is a promising market that has the possibility to hold its own against other sports within the country. It is a clear omen that women's franchises are no longer viewed as a "smaller version" of the sport but as protagonists of an evolving sports landscape.

The battle for Colorado

Denver did not have an easy ride getting to this position. Cleveland and Cincinnati, both from Ohio, were always complicated competitors, but the robustness of its proposal, led by Robert Cohen, CEO of IMA Financial Group, won over. This decision represents not only the financial capacity of the investors but also their commitment to turning Denver into a relevant center for women's soccer.

That fierce competition shows the growing appetite in various parts of the country for a share of the NWSL market. Cleveland and Cincinnati weren't just any competitors, and the fact that Denver outbid them reinforces its position as a strategic and symbolic choice for the league's expansion.

The impact of the NWSL in numbers

Notably, the exponential growth of the NWSL throughout these recent years has been enormous. In 2024 alone, league franchises reached an average valuation of 104 million dollars, up 57% compared to 2023. These numbers explain the league's constant labor with investors, sponsors, and fans.

And into this scenario comes Denver, promising to add even more to that growth. It is not going to be just a new addition to this puzzle but a catalyst to make sure the league touches new heights in relevance and market value.

Challenges and expectations for 2026

While Denver's place in the NWSL is secured, work has only just started. The club will make its debut in 2026 in a temporary home as work to build their own home stadium continues. It follows, then, that the initial seasons will be the most critical in establishing strong support and local involvement.

Beyond that will be the burden of keeping the pace of a league improving in competitive terms season after season. The off-field and on-field results expected to be delivered will be at its highest constant pressure, considering that the weight of initial investment is enormous; all eyes would look on to Denver for what could probably serve as the next model to emulate.