AFS Represents NWSL in Sale of Seattle Reign FC

ArentFox Schiff represented the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) in connection with the recent acquisition of the Seattle Reign FC club by the ownership group comprising the owners of Seattle Sounders FC and The Carlyle Group.

“On behalf of the NWSL and its Board of Governors, we’re thrilled to welcome this new ownership group into the NWSL,” said NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman. “Combining the operational expertise and long-term community leadership of the group led by Adrian Hanauer, with the financial investment of one of the world’s leading investment firms in Carlyle, this group positions Seattle Reign FC for success. We look forward to the continued growth of the Club.”

This unique collaboration between the Sounders and Carlyle, a global private equity firm, follows on the heels of NWSL’s grant of the expansion rights to the Bay Area in 2023 to an investment group led by another global investment firm, Sixth Street Partners.

The AFS team included Stephen P. Hanson, Lynn J. Watkins, Eric B. Hamburg, Felicia A. Xu, Scott L. Gates, and Madeline Roe.

From coast to coast, ArentFox Schiff boasts one of the country’s most experienced and diverse sports law practices, with clients spanning individuals, organizations, and teams involved with major league, minor league, and Olympic sports and Games. The group has extensive experience advising sports organizations, owners, and investors engaged in acquiring and selling professional sports franchises and properties, with significant experience on the buy-side and sell-side.

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