Arthur Blank, the owner of the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United in Major League Soccer, has expanded his sports empire with the recent announcement of Atlanta being granted an expansion franchise in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). The new NWSL team, set to commence in 2028, will join Blank’s existing teams in playing at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in downtown Atlanta.
This addition will make Atlanta the 17th team in the NWSL, following recent expansions in Boston and Denver. NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman highlighted Atlanta’s vibrant energy, diversity, and ambition, stating that the city possesses the essential elements to be a thriving market for the league.
The NWSL club in Atlanta will see modifications to Mercedes-Benz Stadium, with attendance capped at around 28,000. The team will be managed by Blank’s AMB Sports and Entertainment group, which also oversees the Atlanta Drive Golf Club of TGL, associated with golf stars Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy.
In further support of women’s professional soccer, Blank’s investment includes establishing a training facility in the city. AMBSE is actively seeking team leadership and a suitable team name for the upcoming franchise.
Expressing enthusiasm for the new venture, Blank emphasized the commitment to building a top-tier women’s soccer organization. The goal is to compete for championships from the outset and create a source of pride for Atlanta fans and the league as a whole. Blank also expressed confidence in the city and state’s fervor for soccer, anticipating strong support for the new NWSL team, akin to the backing received by Atlanta United.