Denver Summit FC: A New Era in NWSL History
Breaking Ground: Denver Summit FC's Record-Setting Home Debut
Denver Summit FC has announced an unprecedented achievement, selling more than 40,000 tickets for their first-ever home game. This remarkable feat positions them to break the existing NWSL single-match attendance record, signaling a new chapter for the league.
The NWSL's Expanding Landscape: Two New Teams Join the Fold
This year, the NWSL welcomes two new franchises, Denver Summit FC and Boston Legacy FC, expanding the league to a total of 16 teams. This growth highlights the increasing national appeal and competitive landscape of women's professional soccer.
Anticipated Milestone: The March 28 Showdown at Empower Field
Denver Summit FC is scheduled to play their initial three matches away from home before their highly anticipated home opener on March 28. This historic game will see them face the Washington Spirit at Empower Field at Mile High, the home stadium of the Denver Broncos, further solidifying their presence in the city's sports scene.
Setting a New Benchmark: Surpassing Previous Attendance Records
The upcoming match is expected to easily eclipse the previous NWSL attendance record of 40,061 spectators, which was established last year during a game between the Spirit and Bay FC at Oracle Park in San Francisco. This demonstrates a significant leap in fan engagement and support for the league.
A Glimpse into NWSL Champions Throughout the Years
The NWSL has a rich history of champions, showcasing various teams that have left their mark on the league. Recent winners include Gotham FC in 2025 (defeating Washington Spirit) and Orlando Pride in 2024 (also triumphing over Washington Spirit). Other notable champions feature NJ/NY Gotham FC (2023), Portland Thorns FC (2022, 2013), Washington Spirit (2021), Houston Dash (2020 Challenge Cup), North Carolina Courage (2019, 2018), Western New York Flash (2016), and FC Kansas City (2015, 2014). The Challenge Cup has also seen champions like Washington Spirit (2025), North Carolina Courage (2023, 2022), Portland Thorns FC (2021), and Houston Dash (2020).
Interim Home and Future Permanent Residence: Centennial Stadium and Santa Fe Yards
For the next two years, Denver Summit FC will utilize Centennial Stadium, a temporary venue with a seating capacity of 12,000, for the majority of their home matches. Concurrently, plans are underway for a permanent 14,500-seat stadium in Denver's Santa Fe Yards district, a project that received approval from the Denver City Council in December and is projected to open in 2028.