A recent post in a popular sports subreddit reveals that the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) is in exclusive talks to bring a new expansion team to Denver, with speculated fees between $105 to $120 million. This negotiation has stirred a lively discussion among fans as various opinions emerge regarding the strategic implications of such a decision. While some praise the potential of a Denver franchise, others are skeptical about the financial sense of placing a new soccer team in a city already struggling to fill its sports venues.
Summary
- Exclusive talks for an NWSL expansion team are centered on Denver, with fees exceeding previous figures by a significant margin.
- Comments indicate a mix of excitement and skepticism regarding Denver as a location for professional women’s soccer.
- Many users pointed out the potential risks associated with high expansion fees in a market characterized by varying attendance levels.
- The discussion highlights broader issues in professional sports regarding market viability and financial sustainability.
Expansion Fees: A New Record?
The proposed expansion fee for an NWSL team in Denver, ranging from $105 million to $120 million, raises eyebrows in the sports community. Social media commentators have expressed disbelief that the league can command such high fees, especially considering the financial struggles often faced by professional sports teams. A commenter mused, “$100-$120 million seems extraordinarily high… how long does it take an MLS team to make that much?” Others echoed similar sentiments, questioning the rationale behind such a steep price tag given the attendance challenges faced by existing teams in the area. The idea that these fees might be based on overly optimistic valuations of U.S. soccer clubs reflects a broader concern about the bubble in sports economics.
Denver’s Sports Landscape
Fans are divided on whether Denver is suitable for an NWSL team. One user expressed surprise that a city with the Colorado Rapids, who reportedly have the lowest attendance in Major League Soccer (MLS), would be chosen. “Are they building a new stadium somewhere near the population?” they asked, hinting at the critical importance of location in attracting fans. Denver’s status as a major sporting city adds pressure; it hosts all five major men’s sports, yet many teams face challenges in cultivating strong attendance. “No greater metro smaller than Denver has more than 3/5 major men’s sports,” noted one commentator, highlighting the market saturation that could drive fans away from another soccer franchise.
Local Sentiments and Opportunities
Frustration loomed large in many comments devoted to the landscape of soccer in the region. “Great now there will be two soccer teams in Colorado with shitty attendance,” one user quipped, capturing that sentiment succinctly. The question remains: is the NWSL making a sound decision in expansion, or are they risking another venture into a market that may not sustain two teams? Yet others commented on the chance for Denver to rejuvenate its sporting identity through women’s soccer. “If it ever gets off the ground, I’m sure Denver will be great,” suggested another, revealing a glimmer of hope for those who see the potential ahead.
Comparisons to Other Potential Locations
The debate became even more intense when users compared Denver’s bid against other cities like Cincinnati and Cleveland, both of which were considered viable candidates for expansion. Commentators noted Cincinnati’s impressive stadium and Cleveland’s readiness for an expansion team. “Kinda surprised they didn’t go with Cincy, esp after Caitlin Clark got on board,” one user remarked, shedding light on regional rivalries shaping the conversation.
Many fans perceive the decision to choose Denver as money-driven, indicating that financial incentives are overshadowing considerations of community support and engagement. “This seems like a very money-driven decision by NWSL,” declared a user. As robust teams begin to emerge in cities like Cincinnati, the sentiment of missing out on a culturally resonant team like Cleveland raises eyebrows about the motivations behind Denver’s selection.
The vibrant discussion thread represented a kaleidoscope of views and emotions, encapsulating the excitement and skepticism around the National Women’s Soccer League’s potential expansion into Denver. Users expressed both enthusiasm for an NWSL presence in the Mile High City, as well as concern about whether this venture can genuinely thrive amidst existing challenges. As negotiations progress, the outcomes will be pivotal not only for Denver but also for the league’s reputation and sustainability in a rapidly evolving sports landscape.