Unveiling the NWSL's Bold Vision for Growth
The National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) has set an ambitious goal to expand to 32 teams, mirroring the structure of the NFL. Commissioner Jessica Berman has publicly expressed confidence in this vision, stating on April 5, 2025, that she believes the league could grow to be the size of the NFL. This statement has sparked a mix of optimism and skepticism within the soccer community, as the league currently stands at 14 teams with plans for further expansion already in motion.
Recent announcements indicate that the NWSL is in exclusive talks with Denver to become the league's 16th franchise, with expansion fees discussed in the range of $105 million to $120 million. Additionally, plans are underway to add two more teams by 2026, bringing the total closer to the ultimate goal. However, the path to 32 teams raises questions about feasibility, infrastructure, and talent pool depth, as highlighted by various industry insiders.
Challenges and Skepticism Surrounding Expansion
While the vision is bold, not everyone within the league is convinced of its practicality. Some executives have described the idea as 'crazy' or 'dangerous,' pointing to potential overexpansion in a sport where the talent pool may not yet support such a large number of competitive teams. The rapid increase in franchise feesโfrom a range of $2 million to $5 million in earlier years to upwards of $50 million for recent additions like teams in the San Francisco Bay Area and Bostonโalso underscores the financial stakes involved.
Logistical hurdles add another layer of complexity. The NWSL has revealed a framework for the 2026 season, including a break in June to accommodate the men's World Cup, which will be predominantly hosted in the United States. Balancing an expanded schedule with international events, player fatigue, and fan engagement will be critical challenges for the league to address as it grows.
Moreover, concerns about diluting the quality of play persist. With a limited number of elite players available, spreading talent across 32 teams could impact the competitiveness of matches, a point raised by several league insiders who question whether such rapid growth is sustainable at this stage of women's soccer development in the U.S.
Future Prospects and Strategic Moves
Despite the skepticism, there are signs that the NWSL is laying the groundwork for success. The league's ability to attract significant investment, as seen with ownership groups committing additional funds for facilitiesโsuch as a California group pledging $72 million for a practice facility alongside a $53 million expansion feeโdemonstrates financial backing that could support infrastructure needs for more teams.
Strategic partnerships and mergers have also been floated as potential solutions to accelerate growth. Suggestions on social media platforms like X include merging with other women's leagues to increase team counts more rapidly, potentially reaching 22 teams by incorporating existing organizations. While these ideas remain speculative, they reflect a broader conversation about innovative approaches to achieving the 32-team goal.
As the NWSL navigates these waters, the balance between ambition and pragmatism will be key. With plans for new franchises in cities like Denver and a clear roadmap for 2026, the league is taking concrete steps forward. Whether it can overcome the inherent challenges and truly emulate the NFL's scale remains an open question, but the determination of its leadership and growing investor interest suggest that this vision, while daunting, is far from mere talk.