Peyton Manning is stepping into new territory, taking a cue from his younger brother Eli. The legendary NFL quarterback has joined the ownership group of Denver’s upcoming National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) expansion club, gearing up for its first season in 2026. Known for his time with the Denver Broncos, where he brought home a Super Bowl victory in 2016, Manning’s decision to get involved in women’s soccer reflects a growing trend of athletes supporting and investing in sports beyond their primary discipline.
Eli Manning has had his footprint in this evolving landscape for a while now, having owned a stake in NJ/NY Gotham FC since 2022. It seems the competitive spirit runs deep in the Manning family, transcending football into the realm of soccer.
While the specific terms of Manning’s investment in the Denver club weren’t disclosed, he joins a notable group of owners, including Rob Cohen, who serves as the chairman and CEO of IMA Financial Group. The ownership roster also features notable figures like Mellody Hobson, co-CEO of Ariel Investments, Molly Coors, and Olympic star Mikaela Shiffrin, a World Cup alpine skier. This diverse collective signifies not just a financial investment but a commitment to fostering a vibrant sports culture in Denver.
In Manning’s own words, “It’s a real honor to be part of something so meaningful to the Colorado community. I’m proud to support the growth of women’s sports and excited to help build a club that our city and our state can rally behind.” His enthusiasm reflects a broader sentiment in sports—where the support for women’s athletics is growing rapidly, showcasing the potential for change and expansion.
Since hanging up his cleats in 2016, Manning hasn’t just faded into the background. He’s carved out a niche for himself in the media world, founding Omaha Productions. CNBC recently valued the company at an impressive $750 million, largely due to the success of shows like *Monday Night Football with Peyton and Eli*, which highlight his ability to connect with fans in fresh and engaging ways.
The Denver NWSL team represents more than just a new franchise; it’s part of a larger trend, with Denver and Boston both set to join the league, expanding its reach to 16 teams. Denver is still in the process of announcing its club name and branding, but fans can expect the team to play in a temporary 12,000-seat stadium in Centennial for the first two seasons. Plans are in motion for a larger, 14,500-seat venue in the Sante Fe Yards entertainment district of Denver, anticipated to open in 2028.
The expansion announcement was quite monumental; the ownership group, led by Cohen, was awarded the team for a staggering $110 million. This figure more than doubled the previous NWSL record and stands as the highest expansion fee in the history of U.S. women’s sports, underscoring the growing respect and investment in women’s athletics.
Manning’s move isn’t just a business venture; it symbolizes a commitment to uplifting women’s sports and connecting with a community that is eager for change. As the excitement builds for the 2026 season, fans have plenty to look forward to—not just in terms of soccer, but as part of a broader movement towards inclusivity and recognition of women in sports.
Image Source: Peyton Manning @ Instagram
