The NWSL’s Strategic Vision for the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup
The 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, presents a unique opportunity and challenge for the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). With 11 of the 16 host cities located in the U.S., the NWSL is strategically positioned to leverage the global spotlight on soccer. Commissioner Jessica Berman has been vocal about the league’s plans to continue operations during the World Cup, signaling a bold move to capitalize on the anticipated “explosive growth” in soccer interest.
Leveraging the Global Spotlight
The NWSL’s decision to maintain its regular-season schedule during the 2026 World Cup is a strategic move that aligns with the league’s ambitions for growth and relevance. By keeping its games on the calendar, the NWSL aims to benefit from the increased attention on soccer, potentially attracting new fans and sponsors. This approach also ensures that the women’s game maintains momentum and visibility, which is crucial for long-term sustainability and growth.
Logistical Challenges and Opportunities
However, the co-hosting of the Men’s World Cup also presents logistical challenges. The NWSL will need to navigate an increasingly crowded summer soccer calendar, with multiple high-profile tournaments and events vying for attention and resources. Commissioner Berman has acknowledged that the World Cup will “take over all of our buildings,” implying that the league will need to be creative and flexible in its scheduling and resource allocation.
One of the key challenges will be securing training grounds and facilities, as the World Cup will likely prioritize its needs. The NWSL has four teams with training grounds in World Cup host cities, which could be a significant advantage. However, the league will need to work closely with local authorities and FIFA to ensure that its needs are also met.
Expansion and Infrastructure Development
The NWSL is also in the midst of a significant expansion, with new teams set to join the league in the coming years. Boston Legacy FC will begin play as an expansion team in 2025, and Denver is set to join in 2026. The Denver team has already unveiled plans for a new 14,500-seated stadium, which is set for completion in 2028. 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.
The league 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 to better manage its resources and ensure that all teams have access to the facilities and support they need to succeed.
The Path Forward
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 also 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.
Conclusion: A Pivotal Moment for the NWSL
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. 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.
