Denver Wins Bid to Host New Women's Soccer Team

Denver is getting a new professional women's soccer team. At a recent event, the National Women's Soccer League announced that Denver would get their 16th franchise team. This team will begin playing in 2026. A key part of the deal is that Denver had to pay a record $110 million. This is pretty amazing when you think about it. Just a year and a half ago, the owners of a Boston team paid less than half of that amount for theirs. So what does this say about the growth of women's soccer? Nothing other than it is growing exponentially. Rob Cohen, the chairman of IMA Financial Group, and several other investors will own the new team. This includes Ariel Investments' Mellody Hobson, former Washington Commanders president Jason Wright, and a group of other investors. Cohen will be the main owner and governor, with Hobson as alternate governor. The ownership group has big plans for the team and its future. The team's location has not been officially announced yet. But, one thing is certain. It will be in a central location with easy access to public transportation. The owners hope to announce the temporary and permanent venues soon. Cohen says he plans to build a high-tech facility designed just for women's soccer. Cohen has a history in Denver sports. Back in 2001, he started the Denver Sports Commission. He also helped found the U. S. Olympic and Paralympic Foundation. The owners believe that bringing NWSL to Denver will bring diversity and high standards. They want to build a club that will be ethical and strong from day one. The Denver group beat out Cleveland and Cincinnati. A notable figure from Cincinnati was WNBA rookie superstar Caitlin Clark. She was part of their bid for the NWSL team. Despite that, Denver won the bid. Colorado has a strong history with women's soccer. Several top players, like Lindsey Horan, Mallory Swanson, and Sophia Smith, call the state home.