Arthur Blank, the owner of the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons and Major League Soccer’s Atlanta United, has expanded his sports empire with the recent announcement that Atlanta has been granted an expansion franchise in the National Women’s Soccer League. The new NWSL team, set to commence play in 2028, will join Blank’s existing teams at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in downtown Atlanta.
This expansion makes Atlanta the 17th team in the NWSL, following recent additions in Boston and Denver. Commissioner Jessica Berman praised Atlanta’s vibrant energy, diversity, and sports culture, stating that the city has the potential to become one of the league’s most dynamic markets.
Modifications will be made to Mercedes-Benz Stadium to accommodate the NWSL club, with attendance capped around 28,000. Blank’s AMB Sports and Entertainment group will operate the NWSL team, adding to Blank’s investments in women’s professional soccer, including a dedicated training site in the city.
In a statement, Blank expressed excitement about bringing a NWSL franchise to Atlanta, emphasizing the goal of competing for championships and creating a source of pride for fans in the city, state, and beyond. The search for team leadership and a name is underway, with a commitment to building a world-class organization both on and off the field.
