Denver Summit Sets NWSL Attendance Record in Draw with Washington Spirit

The new expansion team's first home game draws a league-record crowd, but they settle for a point against the struggling Spirit.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 7:24am

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A dynamic, fractured painting in the style of Pablo Picasso, depicting a crowded soccer match at Mile High Stadium with overlapping geometric shapes and planes of vibrant colors representing the players, fans, and energy of the event.The record-breaking crowd at Denver Summit's inaugural home game creates an electric atmosphere, captured in a cubist-inspired illustration.Denver Today

In their first home game, the new Denver Summit NWSL expansion team set a league attendance record with 63,004 fans at Mile High Stadium. However, the Summit were only able to manage a 0-0 draw against the winless Washington Spirit, who continue to struggle to find their attacking form this season.

Why it matters

The record-breaking attendance showcases the growing popularity of women's soccer in the United States and the potential for the NWSL to expand its fanbase. However, the Summit's inability to capitalize on the electric atmosphere and secure a win against the struggling Spirit raises questions about the expansion team's ability to translate fan enthusiasm into on-field success.

The details

The Summit controlled possession for much of the match but were unable to break down a resolute Washington defense. The Spirit, who are yet to win a game this season, managed to frustrate the home team and earn a valuable point on the road. Despite the disappointing result, the Summit can take pride in setting a new NWSL attendance record in their inaugural home game.

  • The Denver Summit's first home game was played on Saturday.
  • The announced attendance of 63,004 fans set a new NWSL record.

The players

Denver Summit

The new NWSL expansion team playing their first home game in front of a record-breaking crowd.

Washington Spirit

The struggling NWSL team that remains winless through the first four games of the 2026 season.

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What they’re saying

“Even collecting a point in a 0-0 draw with the Spirit is a valuable result. In all, Saturday was a great day for Denver.”

— Joseph Lowery, ESPN Writer

What’s next

The Denver Summit will look to build on the momentum of their record-breaking home debut when they host the Seattle Reign on Saturday. The Washington Spirit, meanwhile, will aim to secure their first win of the season when they visit the Bay FC on Sunday.

The takeaway

The Denver Summit's inaugural home game was a resounding success off the field, but the team will need to translate that fan enthusiasm into on-field results if they want to establish themselves as a contender in the NWSL. The Washington Spirit, on the other hand, face mounting pressure to turn their season around after a disappointing start.