Caitlin Clark Joins Effort to Bring NWSL Expansion Team to Cincinnati
Cincinnati could soon become a powerhouse for women’s soccer, with a thrilling new development bringing the city closer to landing an NWSL expansion team. Among the key players in this exciting bid is none other than Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark, who has joined the ownership group leading the charge to secure the team. Her involvement has electrified the process, and for good reason—Clark’s reputation as a dynamic athlete and her commitment to elevating women’s sports make her an invaluable asset to the bid.
Why Caitlin Clark’s Involvement is a Game-Changer
Caitlin Clark’s influence extends far beyond her WNBA achievements. Selected first in the 2024 WNBA draft after a record-shattering college career at the University of Iowa, Clark has already made waves as a professional. She not only clinched the WNBA Rookie of the Year award in 2024 but also became the first rookie since Candace Parker in 2008 to earn a spot on the All-WNBA First Team. Her passion for sports, coupled with her ability to inspire women and girls globally, brings a unique star power to Cincinnati’s bid.
The bid group celebrated her involvement with glowing praise:
“Her passion for the sport, commitment to elevating women's sports in and around the Greater Cincinnati region, and influence as an athlete and role model for women and girls around the world make her a vital part of our compelling bid to become the 16th team in the NWSL,” the group said in a statement to ESPN.
The Bigger Picture: NWSL Expansion
Cincinnati is one of several cities vying to join the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), which continues to grow in popularity and prestige. The league is expected to award its 16th team before the end of the year, with play slated to begin in 2026. The new team will join the previously announced expansion in Boston, rounding out the league’s expansion to 16 teams.
The competition is fierce, with Cleveland, Denver, Nashville, and Philadelphia also submitting bids. However, Cincinnati has emerged as a front-runner thanks to its strong ownership backing, existing infrastructure, and passionate fan base. Unlike some competitors who plan to start in temporary venues or build new stadiums, Cincinnati already boasts a purpose-built soccer stadium, which is a significant advantage.
FC Cincinnati’s Leading Role in the Bid
The ownership group behind the city’s successful MLS team, FC Cincinnati, is spearheading the effort to bring professional women’s soccer to the city. This group’s track record and resources position Cincinnati as a top contender. According to insiders, these factors make the city one of the favorites in the expansion process.
In contrast, other cities face infrastructure challenges. For example:
- Cleveland has strong backing and has secured downtown land for a stadium but hasn’t built it yet.
- Denver and Philadelphia are also planning to launch in temporary venues while constructing new facilities.
These hurdles could make Cincinnati’s already-established infrastructure a decisive factor in the league’s decision.
The Financial Stakes of Expansion
Bringing a new team to the NWSL isn’t just about passion—it’s a major financial undertaking. Sources reveal that the expansion fee for the 16th NWSL team could approach $100 million. For comparison, the recently launched teams in Boston and Bay FC entered the league in 2023 for a $53 million expansion fee. This dramatic increase underscores the league’s growing stature and the high stakes involved in securing a spot.
This isn’t the first time the league has seen intense interest. Earlier this year, a dozen groups entered the initial stages of bidding. Cincinnati’s strong leadership and infrastructure have helped it rise to the top of this competitive process.
What’s Next for Cincinnati?
With an announcement expected by year’s end, the anticipation is palpable. If Cincinnati’s bid is successful, the city will host an NWSL team starting in 2026. For sports fans, this would mean another reason to rally around their city, adding professional women’s soccer to Cincinnati’s growing sports portfolio.
Caitlin Clark’s involvement adds a sense of excitement and credibility to the effort, showcasing the bid’s dedication to promoting women’s sports at the highest level. Whether it’s her dazzling achievements on the court or her inspiring role as a trailblazer for female athletes, Clark is the perfect ambassador for this venture.
Why It Matters
For Cincinnati, landing an NWSL team is about more than soccer—it’s about community, inspiration, and breaking barriers in women’s sports. The potential team would bring a spotlight to the city and provide countless opportunities for young athletes and fans alike. This expansion is a testament to the growing demand for women’s sports and the commitment of cities like Cincinnati to meet that demand head-on.
As the countdown continues, all eyes are on Cincinnati. Will the city secure its place as a hub for women’s soccer? With stars like Caitlin Clark and a dedicated ownership group at the helm, Cincinnati’s chances look brighter than ever.
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