The fallout of NWSL investigation has fans demanding for ownership change
Content warning: This story contains accounts of sexual, verbal and emotional abuse.
The GIST: The fallout continues for NWSL leadership after the U.S. Soccer Federation published findings from its independent investigation into league-wide abuse. Fans of the Chicago Red Stars, Racing Louisville FC and the Portland Thorns maintained demands for ownership changes this week, and sponsors have also started to weigh in.
The latest: The Red Stars’ board removed owner Arnim Whisler from his governance role on Wednesday, while Portland majority stakeholder Merritt Paulson transferred control of the Thorns and MLS’ Timbers FC to general counsel Heather Davis. Portland execs Gavin Wilkinson and Mike Golub were also relieved of their duties this week.
- Yesterday, USWNT star Megan Rapinoe joined calls for Whisler and Paulson to actually sell their shares. “I don't think Merritt Paulson is fit to be the owner in Portland,” she said. “I don't think Arnim is fit to be the owner in Chicago.” Preach.
The brands: Portland partners Tillamook and Laurelwood Brewing Co. and Louisville sponsors GE and Barrell Craft Spirits announced Wednesday that they would not renew existing deals if the respective clubs did not institute meaningful change.
- Not all NWSL sponsors are acting in lockstep, though. Some have only gone so far as to acknowledge the horrific findings without laying out next steps.
The trend: North of the border, partners are putting their money where their mouths are. Tim Hortons said it will no longer support Hockey Canada’s men’s team amid its mishandling of sexual assault claims, but they will keep backing the women’s, paralympic and youth teams. Other sponsors are also set to withdraw “as soon as this week,” per a report.
Zooming out: From the NWSL to Hockey Canada and the NBA, sponsors are building a habit of leveraging their financial power to kick abusive and complicit leaders out of sports. We hope it evolves from a trend into an industry standard. Money talks.
