Expansion team Denver Summit FC is spearheading a notable surge in attendance across the NWSL this season, as the league moves toward achieving another significant milestone. Currently, nine out of the sixteen clubs are averaging over 10,000 spectators per game, highlighting a growing enthusiasm for women’s professional soccer.
Leading this upward trend, Denver Summit FC draws an impressive average crowd of 20,579 fans at home matches. Their debut home game against Washington set a league attendance record, attracting 63,004 spectators to the NFL’s Empower Field.
Alongside Denver, the Portland Thorns and Washington Spirit are key contributors to the attendance growth. Portland maintains a strong average of 19,079 fans, while Washington is close behind with 15,527. The Spirit are on pace to establish a new franchise record, and the Thorns are nearing their highest attendance figures since 2019.
Steady Growth and Future Prospects
This season’s rise to nine clubs surpassing the 10,000 mark is an improvement from seven clubs achieving the same in 2024, reflecting consistent progress following the league’s remarkable 35.4% attendance increase in 2023. The momentum signals expanding fan engagement and growing support across multiple markets.
Looking ahead, the upcoming 2027 Women’s World Cup is expected to further elevate interest in the sport. Historically, major tournaments have led to an average attendance boost of 26.6% in the subsequent season. NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman emphasized the league’s strategic scheduling, which positions it to benefit from the heightened attention before and after the global event.
“We know that major tournaments inspire millions of people to follow the sport, and our schedule allows us to be part of the lead-in and the lead-out of that big moment,” Berman remarked at a recent press conference, underscoring the league’s optimism for continued growth.