Haslam Sports Group has sold a 10% interest in the Columbus Crew to the Edwards family, valuing the franchise at $900 million, according to a report by Sportico on Tuesday. The Edwards family is already a stakeholder in the MLS team, holding a 30% share, and reportedly controls Haslam Sports Group, which oversees the sports ventures of Jimmy and Dee Haslam.
Earlier this year, Sportico ranked the Columbus Crew as the eighth most valuable team in MLS, with a valuation of $730 million. The team did not comment on the transaction. Since winning the 2023 MLS Cup and the 2024 League Cup, the Crew has sold out nearly all of its home games and was valued at $314 million when it began operations in 2021. Haslam Sports Group also owns the NFL’s Cleveland Browns and has expressed interest in acquiring the NBA’s Milwaukee Bucks.
Fan Take: This investment reflects the growing value of MLS teams, signaling robust growth in American soccer. For fans, it hints at the Crew’s commitment to maintaining competitiveness while enhancing their market value, which could translate into a richer experience on and off the field.