On June 3, 2025, former NFL quarterback and Pro Football Hall of Famer Peyton Manning officially joined the ownership group of the Denver National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) team, making him one of the latest prominent athletes to invest in women’s sports. Manning’s involvement in the team comes at a time when the spotlight on women’s athletics is growing, and the move has been widely seen as part of a larger trend of high-profile athletes supporting and investing in the development of women’s professional leagues.
Manning, who is considered one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history, expressed his excitement and pride in supporting the growth of women’s sports. In a statement, he emphasized his desire to help build a team that not only excels on the field but also represents the broader Colorado community. “It’s an honor to be involved in such an exciting and important project,” Manning said. “The opportunity to contribute to the growth of women’s athletics and to help create an environment where young girls and boys alike can see firsthand the power of women in sports is something that deeply resonates with me.”
Manning’s involvement in the Denver NWSL team aligns with a larger trend where more male athletes, especially from other sports, are making efforts to elevate women’s sports by becoming part of ownership groups, helping to secure funding, and raising the profile of women’s leagues. This includes other high-profile investments in women’s soccer, basketball, and other professional sports. Manning’s move is particularly noteworthy due to his stature in the sports world, with his name carrying significant weight in both the football community and beyond.
The NWSL, which has grown rapidly in popularity since its founding, has become one of the most recognized women’s soccer leagues in the world, and the Denver team is eager to build on that momentum. Manning’s investment is expected to bring not just financial backing but also a wealth of experience in managing teams, which could be crucial in establishing the Denver NWSL franchise as a major contender in the league.
The Denver team, which has yet to debut, is slated to begin its inaugural season in the 2026 NWSL campaign. The group of investors behind the team includes a diverse mix of business professionals and former athletes, but Manning’s participation brings an added layer of attention to the team, further cementing the growing visibility of women’s soccer in the U.S. His involvement is also seen as a commitment to diversifying the sports industry, helping to inspire the next generation of athletes, and supporting the larger cultural shift towards equality in sports.
Manning’s decision to join the NWSL ownership group is part of a wider shift in how former male athletes are increasingly becoming involved in women’s sports. From NBA stars to former NFL players, there has been a noticeable push in the past few years for prominent figures to back women’s leagues. The growth of women’s professional soccer has not only elevated female athletes but has also opened new avenues for financial success, both in terms of viewership and corporate sponsorship.
Women’s sports, particularly soccer, have seen incredible advancements in recent years, with major milestones such as the U.S. Women’s National Team’s continued success on the world stage, leading to greater recognition and investment opportunities. Manning’s commitment is seen as another sign that the sports world is increasingly recognizing the value of women’s athletics.
In his statement, Manning reflected on the lasting impact this venture could have on the community, particularly on inspiring young girls who dream of becoming professional athletes. He acknowledged that his own experiences as a mentor and leader in football have given him a unique perspective on the importance of building a strong, inclusive sports culture, one that allows all athletes to reach their full potential.
This partnership with the Denver NWSL team is expected to not only impact the local sports scene but also help bring national attention to the league. The NWSL, which has been steadily growing in popularity, will now benefit from Manning’s broad fan base and public recognition, potentially attracting new sponsors and supporters.
The announcement marks another milestone in the push for greater equality and visibility in women’s sports, with Manning’s high-profile involvement setting an example for others in the sports industry. As the Denver NWSL team gears up for its inaugural season, the influence of Manning’s name and resources could help propel the franchise—and the league—into the spotlight.
