Arthur Blank, the owner of the Atlanta Falcons in the NFL and Atlanta United in Major League Soccer, is expanding his sports empire by acquiring an expansion franchise in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). The new NWSL team, set to debut in 2028, will join Blank’s existing teams at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the iconic downtown dome.
This addition makes Atlanta the 17th team in the NWSL, following recent expansions in Boston and Denver. NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman praised Atlanta as a city that embodies the energy and diversity necessary for the league’s growth, citing its passionate fan base and strong sports culture.
The announcement detailed plans for modifications to Mercedes-Benz Stadium to accommodate the NWSL club, with attendance capped at around 28,000. The team will be operated by Blank’s AMB Sports and Entertainment group, which also oversees the Atlanta Drive Golf Club and indoor golf league.
Blank’s commitment to women’s professional soccer extends to developing a training facility in Atlanta. The search for team leadership and a name is underway, with Blank expressing enthusiasm for the opportunity to build a successful NWSL franchise in the city.
“We are excited to bring a National Women’s Soccer League franchise to Atlanta and Georgia, engaging the passionate soccer community here,” said Blank. “Our aim is to compete for championships, making our fans proud and contributing to the league’s success for years to come. Atlanta’s love for soccer is evident, and we believe our fans will support this new club just as they have embraced Atlanta United.”