Nationwide is adding another hometown investment to its portfolio.
The Columbus-based insurance and financial services company announced today that it has joined the Columbus Crew ownership group, taking a meaningful minority stake in the club alongside Haslam Sports Group and the Edwards family. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.
The announcement comes during Nationwide’s centennial year and just a couple of months after the company partnered with Haslam Sports Group and the Edwards family to help bring an expansion National Women’s Soccer League team to Columbus.
“As we celebrate Nationwide’s 100th anniversary, we are focused not only on where we’ve been, but where we’re going,” Nationwide CEO Kirt Walker said in a statement. “The Crew and its fans represent the passion and strong connection to the Central Ohio community that Nationwide has enjoyed for more than a century.”
Haslam Sports Group said the expanded partnership reflects a shared commitment to growing the game in Central Ohio, both through the Crew and the city’s future NWSL club.
“Nationwide is a cornerstone institution that’s consistently shown an exceptional commitment to Columbus,” said Jimmy and Dee Haslam in a joint statement. “We’re proud to strengthen our long-term partnership and collective dedication to advancing soccer in Central Ohio for both our men’s and women’s clubs.”
While the companies aren’t sharing additional details about the investment, the move continues a busy stretch for soccer in Columbus. Along with the Crew, the same ownership group is preparing to launch the city’s National Women’s Soccer League expansion team, which is expected to kick off in 2028.
