Denver Summit FC

Denver Summit FC Overview

Denver Summit FC is a professional women’s soccer team based in the Denver metropolitan area. Founded on January 30, 2025, the club will compete in the National Women’s Soccer League starting in 2026 as the league’s 16th team. The ownership group includes finance executive Robert Cohen, alpine skier Mikaela Shiffrin, and former NFL quarterback Peyton Manning. The team plays its home matches at Centennial Stadium in Centennial, Colorado, with plans to build a new soccer-specific stadium in Denver’s Baker neighborhood by 2028. Denver Summit FC is the first professional women’s sports team in Colorado since 1998, reflecting the state’s commitment to advancing women’s sports and community engagement.

Founding and Organizational Origins

Denver Summit FC was officially awarded the National Women’s Soccer League expansion franchise on January 30, 2025. The team emerged from a grassroots effort initiated in 2022 by the group For Denver FC, led by former soccer player Jordan Angeli, sports executive Tom Dunmore, and insurance executive Ben Hubbard. This group organized community outreach events, including watch parties during the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, to build local support for professional women’s soccer. The ownership group expanded to include finance executive Robert Cohen, venture capitalist Nicole Glaros, and later alpine skier Mikaela Shiffrin and former NFL quarterback Peyton Manning. The group secured a league-record expansion fee of $110 million, demonstrating strong financial backing and commitment to the team’s success.

Growth Into National Women’s Soccer League Competition

Denver Summit FC will join the National Women’s Soccer League as its 16th team in the 2026 season. The team has appointed Nick Cushing as head coach to lead its competitive efforts. The club has developed plans for a temporary 12,000-seat stadium in Centennial to host its first two seasons, with a long-term vision to construct a 14,500-seat soccer-specific stadium in Denver’s Baker neighborhood by 2028. The organization is also investing in extensive training facilities, including eight soccer fields on 43 acres in Centennial, financed primarily by the Cherry Creek School District. These developments position Denver Summit FC for sustainable growth and competitive success in the league.

Denver Summit FC Competitive Journey

As a newly established team, Denver Summit FC is preparing to begin its competitive journey in the National Women’s Soccer League in 2026. The club is focused on building a strong foundation through strategic leadership appointments, infrastructure development, and community engagement to establish itself as a competitive presence in professional women’s soccer.

Early Seasons and Development (2026–2027)

Denver Summit FC will compete initially at Centennial Stadium, a temporary venue designed to accommodate 12,000 fans, before transitioning to its permanent home. The club’s early seasons will focus on assembling a competitive roster under head coach Nick Cushing and establishing a team culture aligned with the ownership’s vision. Early sponsorships and partnerships are expected to develop as the team gains visibility in the league and local community.

Breakthrough in National Women’s Soccer League (2028–Present)

The team’s long-term plan includes moving into a new 14,500-seat soccer-specific stadium located in Denver’s Baker neighborhood by 2028. This milestone will mark a significant step in Denver Summit FC’s growth, providing enhanced facilities for players and fans. The club aims to leverage this infrastructure to improve competitive performance, attract top talent, and deepen its fan base. Continued investment in training facilities and community programs will support the team’s pursuit of playoff appearances and championship contention.

Modern Program and Current Direction (2025–Present)

Denver Summit FC is owned by a diverse group including Robert Cohen, Mikaela Shiffrin, and Peyton Manning, combining expertise from finance, sports, and entertainment. The team is committed to building a strong organizational structure with a focus on sustainable growth and competitive excellence. Current efforts include securing stadium approvals, developing training facilities, and engaging with the Denver community. The club’s identity, including its crest and logos designed by Matthew Wolff, reflects Colorado’s natural landscape and cultural heritage.

Philosophy and Competitive Strengths

Denver Summit FC emphasizes community engagement, strong organizational leadership, and investment in infrastructure as core elements of its identity. The team aims to cultivate a competitive spirit grounded in Colorado’s sports tradition and natural environment, focusing on developing talent and fostering a passionate fan base.

Key Milestones and Major Moments

Key milestones include the official awarding of the NWSL franchise in January 2025, the announcement of the team name and crest in July 2025, and the inclusion of high-profile owners Mikaela Shiffrin and Peyton Manning in 2025. The club’s strategic plans for stadium development and training facilities represent important organizational achievements.

Denver Summit FC Achievements and Results

As a newly founded team, Denver Summit FC has yet to compete in official league matches. The club’s achievements to date are focused on organizational development, securing franchise status, and establishing foundational infrastructure for future competitive success.

National Women’s Soccer League Achievements

Denver Summit FC will begin competition in the National Women’s Soccer League in 2026. The team has set ambitious goals for competitive performance and community impact as it enters the league.