Introduction to Columbus Crew’s Success
The Columbus Crew, a team known for excelling in various competitions, has amassed seven national titles and two international accolades since 2020. Their trophy collection includes four championships in the current tournament, solidifying their reputation as a formidable force.
Columbus Crew’s Winning Formula
The club has its own player development strategy, with their academy recognized as the best in MLS in 2024. This season, they expanded their youth setup by adding Under-18, Under-16, and Under-15 teams, further strengthening their player pipeline. Previously, they only had Under-17 teams.
Home Ground and Community
Nestled within the Arena District, home to other professional sports teams like Blue Jackets (NHL), Fury (Pro Volleyball Federation), and Clippers (MLB’s Triple-A affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians), Columbus Crew fans have celebrated seven national titles and two international victories since 2002. Currently, they rank as the third most successful MLS team with three titles, behind LA Galaxy (6) and D.C. United (4).
Leagues Cup Competition
In previous editions (2023 and 2024), Columbus Crew was the sole MLS team to face the Liga MX club América. However, the tournament’s new format in 2024 allowed Crew to compete against Toluca, Puebla, and León in the group stage.
Coaching Strategy and Success
Under the guidance of French head coach Wilfried Nancy, who was named MLS Coach of the Year 2024, Columbus Crew achieved a record-breaking season with 66 points and 72 goals, tying the team’s all-time wins record of 19. Beyond MLS, Nancy and Crew triumphed in the 2024 Leagues Cup, defeating LAFC 3-1, and advanced to the 2024 Concacaf Champions Cup final after eliminating Monterrey and Tigres from Liga MX. Winning the Leagues Cup secured Crew’s spot in the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup.
Key Players and Recent Achievements
With key players like Cucho Hernández, Diego Rossi, Steven Moreira, Darlington Nagbe, and Patrick Schulte, Crew has scored six goals in three Leagues Cup matches this season. Goals are crucial for tiebreakers, and only the top four teams from each league advance.
Recent Valuation and Ownership Changes
This year, Columbus Crew appeared in Sportico’s global top 50 most valuable teams ranking, placing 33rd with a valuation of $730 million, equal to Chivas. Haslam Sports Group (HSG), the club’s owner, recently sold 10% of the team to the Edwards family, who were already minority partners. The Edwards now hold 30% of the team, while HSG retains 70%. Both investors purchased the Ohio franchise rights from MLS for $150 million in 2018.
Growing Interest in U.S. Soccer
This ownership transfer occurs amidst heightened interest in U.S. soccer. In April, the Miller family bought Real Salt Lake and Utah Royals (NWSL) for nearly $600 million. Currently, Vancouver Whitecaps and San Jose Earthquakes are up for sale. Meanwhile, in Mexico’s Liga MX, Necaxa has a stake, and Querétaro’s Gallos Blancos were recently acquired by Innovatio Capital, led by Mark Spiegel.
Columbus Crew’s Palmarés
National Competitions
- MLS Cup: 3 (2008, 2020, 2023)
- Supporters’ Shield: 3 (2004, 2008, 2009)
- US Open Cup: 1 (2002)
International Competitions
- Leagues Cup: 1 (2024)
- Campeones Cup: 1 (2021)
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Columbus Crew? Columbus Crew is a professional soccer team based in Ohio, competing in Major League Soccer (MLS).
- Why is Columbus Crew relevant? The team has a strong track record, having won seven national titles and two international accolades since 2020. Their player development strategy and recent success make them a significant force in MLS.
- How does Columbus Crew’s performance impact others? Their achievements inspire other teams and contribute to the growth of soccer in the United States. Their success also attracts investment and attention to the sport.
