Arthur Blank, known for owning the Atlanta Falcons in the NFL and Atlanta United in Major League Soccer, is expanding his sports empire with the recent acquisition of a National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) expansion franchise for Atlanta. The new team is expected to debut in 2028 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the same venue where Blank’s other teams play.
The addition of the Atlanta franchise will make it the 17th team in the NWSL, following recent expansions in Boston and Denver. NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman expressed excitement about Atlanta joining the league, citing the city’s vibrant fan base and rich sports culture.
Modifications will be made to Mercedes-Benz Stadium to accommodate the NWSL team, with an attendance cap set at around 28,000 spectators. The team will be managed by Blank’s AMB Sports and Entertainment group, which also oversees the Atlanta Drive Golf Club and is involved in women’s professional soccer development in the city.
Blank emphasized his commitment to building a top-tier women’s soccer organization in Atlanta, aiming to compete for championships and create a lasting legacy in the league. The team is currently in the process of selecting leadership and a team name, with plans to engage with the passionate soccer community in Atlanta and Georgia.