2026 World Cup to Dominate NWSL Venues, Says Commissioner

The NWSL’s Strategic Vision for the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup

A Unique Opportunity Amidst Challenges

The 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup, a monumental event co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, brings both opportunities and challenges for the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). With 11 of the 16 host cities located in the U.S., the NWSL is uniquely positioned to capitalize on the global soccer frenzy. Commissioner Jessica Berman has boldly declared the league’s intention to continue operations during the World Cup, aiming to harness the anticipated surge in soccer interest.

Leveraging the Global Spotlight

Maintaining Momentum

The NWSL’s strategy to keep its regular-season schedule intact during the 2026 World Cup is a calculated move designed to fuel the league’s growth and relevance. By doing so, the NWSL seeks to ride the wave of increased soccer enthusiasm, potentially drawing in new fans and sponsors. This approach is crucial for maintaining the momentum and visibility of the women’s game, ensuring its long-term sustainability and growth.

Attracting New Audiences

The global spotlight on soccer during the World Cup provides an unparalleled opportunity for the NWSL to expand its audience. With increased media coverage and public interest, the league can showcase its talent and competitiveness, attracting new fans who may not have previously engaged with women’s soccer. This influx of new audiences can translate into higher viewership, increased merchandise sales, and more robust sponsorship deals.

Ensuring Visibility

Continuing operations during the World Cup also ensures that the women’s game remains visible and relevant. In a sport where visibility often translates to support and investment, the NWSL’s decision to keep its games on the calendar is a strategic move to maintain and grow its fan base. This visibility is essential for attracting and retaining talented players, securing sponsorships, and fostering a vibrant soccer culture.

Navigating Logistical Challenges

A Crowded Soccer Calendar

The 2026 World Cup will undoubtedly dominate the summer soccer calendar, presenting logistical challenges for the NWSL. The league will need to navigate a congested schedule, competing for attention and resources with multiple high-profile tournaments and events. Commissioner Berman has acknowledged the need for creativity and flexibility in scheduling and resource allocation to ensure the NWSL’s success.

Securing Facilities

One of the primary challenges will be securing training grounds and facilities. The World Cup will prioritize its needs, potentially leaving the NWSL with limited options. However, the league’s four teams based in World Cup host cities have a significant advantage, as they already have established training grounds. The NWSL will need to work closely with local authorities and FIFA to ensure that its needs are met, securing the necessary facilities to support its operations.

Creative Solutions

To overcome these logistical hurdles, the NWSL will need to think outside the box. This could involve sharing facilities with other teams, negotiating with local authorities for temporary use of venues, or even exploring innovative solutions like mobile training facilities. The league’s ability to adapt and find creative solutions will be crucial in navigating the challenges posed by the World Cup.

Expansion and Infrastructure Development

Growing the League

The NWSL is in the midst of a significant expansion, with new teams set to join the league in the coming years. Boston Legacy FC will debut in 2025, followed by Denver in 2026. This expansion is not just about increasing the number of teams; it’s about building a robust infrastructure that can support the league’s growth and competitiveness.

Investing in Infrastructure

The Denver team’s plans for a new 14,500-seated stadium, set for completion in 2028, exemplify the league’s commitment to infrastructure development. This investment in state-of-the-art facilities will not only enhance the fan experience but also attract top talent and secure long-term sustainability for the league.

Deepening the Talent Pool

The NWSL is also exploring the possibility of a second division, which would further deepen the talent pool and provide more opportunities for players. This move could also help the NWSL better manage its resources, ensuring that all teams have access to the facilities and support they need to succeed. A second division would create a pathway for young players to develop and progress, fostering a more competitive and dynamic league.

The Path Forward

Strategic Planning

The NWSL’s plans to play during the 2026 World Cup are a testament to its ambition and resilience. By maintaining its schedule, the league is positioning itself to benefit from the global spotlight on soccer while ensuring that the women’s game continues to grow and thrive. However, this path is not without its challenges. The NWSL will need to be strategic and flexible in its approach, working closely with local authorities and FIFA to navigate the logistical hurdles and make the most of the opportunities that the World Cup presents.

Collaboration and Adaptation

Close collaboration with stakeholders will be essential in overcoming the challenges posed by the World Cup. The NWSL will need to work hand-in-hand with local authorities, FIFA, and other soccer organizations to secure the necessary resources and support. This collaboration, coupled with a willingness to adapt and innovate, will be key to the league’s success.

Seizing the Opportunity

The 2026 World Cup presents a unique opportunity for the NWSL to elevate its profile and attract new fans, sponsors, and talent. By leveraging the global spotlight on soccer, the league can further solidify its position as a leading women’s soccer league. This opportunity, however, comes with its share of challenges. The NWSL’s ability to navigate these challenges and seize the opportunity will be crucial in shaping the future of women’s soccer in the United States.

A Pivotal Moment for the NWSL

Embracing the Challenge

The 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup represents a pivotal moment for the NWSL. The league’s decision to continue operations during the tournament is a bold move that underscores its commitment to growth and relevance. By leveraging the global spotlight on soccer, the NWSL has the opportunity to attract new fans, sponsors, and talent, further solidifying its position as a leading women’s soccer league.

Setting the Stage for Success

However, this path will require strategic planning, flexibility, and close collaboration with stakeholders. If executed successfully, the NWSL’s approach to the 2026 World Cup could set the stage for a new era of growth and success for women’s soccer in the United States. The league’s ability to navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities presented by the World Cup will be a defining moment in its history, shaping the future of women’s soccer for years to come.

By editor