On Thursday, the National Women’s Soccer League awarded Denver the league’s 16th franchise at a record $110 million expansion fee, according to a person familiar with the deal, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss nonpublic details.

The National Women's Soccer League officially awarded its 16th franchise to Denver, with play set to begin in 2026, the league announced Thursday. The team's name, colors, brand identity and crest will be revealed later.

NWSL officials on Thursday announced that Denver will onboard as the league's 16th franchise, with the city set to begin on-field play in 2026. The announcement followed more than a month of reporting and anticipation that pointed to Denver winning the bid over Cincinnati and Cleveland, the other finalist cities.