Denver Awarded NWSL's 16th Franchise for Record $110 Million Fee

The expansion marks the largest fee ever paid for a U.S. women's sports team, with the new club set to debut in 2026.

Denver secured the 16th National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) franchise, paying a record-breaking $110 million expansion fee.
The fee is more than double the previous NWSL record and the highest ever paid for a U.S. women's professional sports team.
The Denver ownership group is led by IMA Financial Group CEO Robert Cohen, alongside other investors including former NWSL player Jordan Angeli.
Denver and Boston, another expansion team announced in 2023, will join the league in 2026, bringing the total number of NWSL teams to 16.
Plans for a soccer-specific stadium in Denver are in development, with the team expected to play in a temporary venue initially.