In a landmark development for the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), the San Diego Wave is poised to undergo a change in ownership by the conclusion of the current season. This significant shift comes as the club’s value has been appraised at a remarkable $113 million, marking a substantial milestone in the league’s history.
The transaction, unveiled by sources privy to the agreement and subsequently reported by Sportico, sees the emergence of the Levine Leichtman family as the new custodians of the San Diego Wave. Spearheaded by Lauren Leichtman and Arthur Levine, the family brings a wealth of financial acumen and experience through their esteemed California-based investment firm, Levine Leichtman Capital Partners.
Under the terms of the agreement, the Levine Leichtman family will initially assume the role of significant minority investors within the club. However, their stake is set to ascend to a majority position upon the culmination of the current season.
This sale, with a potential value surging to $120 million, not only eclipses previous records within the NWSL but also underscores the burgeoning commercial allure of women’s soccer franchises.
NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman has expressed palpable enthusiasm about the impending ownership transition. She underscored the longstanding commitment of the Leichtman family to the advancement of women’s sports, noting the potential for sustained growth and progress within the league and its constituent clubs under the stewardship of the new ownership.
In her remarks regarding the investment, Lauren Leichtman conveyed profound excitement about the partnership with San Diego Wave FC. She emphasized the convergence of values between the new ownership and the club’s ethos, framing the investment as an avenue to not only generate financial returns but also to empower women and foster opportunities for female athletes.
Amidst the backdrop of this transformative ownership shift, the San Diego Wave remains unwavering in its focus on upcoming fixtures. The club is slated to partake in the Challenge Cup clash against Gotham FC at Red Bull Arena in New Jersey on Friday night.
Subsequently, the NWSL’s regular season will commence, signifying a new era for the league amidst this monumental change in ownership. These forthcoming matches serve as a testament to the resilience and determination of the players and staff amidst the backdrop of this transformative period in the club’s history.
