The Athletic Gears Up for Chaotic 2026 NWSL Season

The league has seen rapid growth, with 16 teams and a 17th on the way, as the USWNT prepares for the 2027 World Cup.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 7:13pm

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The National Women's Soccer League is heading into a chaotic 2026 season, with 16 teams and a 17th on the way in 2028. The league has seen rapid growth, with the average franchise now worth $184 million, up 179% since 2023. Despite some off-field concerns, the league is poised to continue competing at the top tier of the global stage, with the 2027 Women's World Cup in Brazil on the horizon. The Athletic is ready to provide comprehensive coverage, with new features and a focus on building a community around the NWSL.

Why it matters

The NWSL's rapid expansion and growth in franchise value highlights the increasing popularity and commercialization of women's soccer in the United States. As the league prepares for the 2027 Women's World Cup, its success will be closely tied to the performance of the U.S. women's national team. The Athletic's commitment to in-depth coverage and community engagement will help fans stay informed and connected during this pivotal time for the league.

The details

The NWSL has seen a flurry of activity in recent years, with the league now boasting 16 teams and a 17th on the way in 2028 for a $165 million expansion fee. Despite some off-field concerns, such as the potential loss of star player Trinity Rodman, the league is poised to continue its upward trajectory, with the average franchise now worth $184 million, up 179% since 2023. The upcoming 2026 season will feature several key storylines, including Rodman's return to the Washington Spirit, the much-anticipated return of Sophia Wilson, and the addition of Croix Bethune to the reigning NWSL Shield-winning Kansas City Current.

  • The 17th NWSL team is expected to be announced later in 2026.
  • The 2026 Men's World Cup will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico this summer.
  • The 2027 Women's World Cup will take place in Brazil.

The players

Trinity Rodman

A star player for the Washington Spirit who was the subject of concern that the league could lose her in November.

Sophia Wilson

A player who is expected to make her much-anticipated return to the league after giving birth to her daughter.

Temwa Chawinga

A player who is in doubt for the start of the 2026 NWSL season due to an injury.

Croix Bethune

A new addition to the reigning NWSL Shield-winning Kansas City Current.

Jessica Berman

The NWSL commissioner, who stated in her preseason address that the league will continue to compete in the top tier of the global stage.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The 17th NWSL team is expected to be announced later in 2026.

The takeaway

The NWSL's rapid growth and expansion, coupled with the upcoming 2027 Women's World Cup, highlight the increasing popularity and commercialization of women's soccer in the United States. The Athletic's commitment to comprehensive coverage and community engagement will be crucial in keeping fans informed and connected during this pivotal time for the league.