21 July 2020

‘Women-led' club Angel City from Los Angeles to join NWSL - run by Hollywood stars and former soccer players

The National Women’s Soccer League have announced a Los Angeles team is to enter the league.

The team, called Angel City, had their proposal approved today to enter the league in spring 2022, much to the delight of a group of Hollywood stars and former soccer players who are behind it.

Oscar-winning actress Natalie Portman, actress Eva Longoria, entrepreneur Alexis Ohanian, tennis star Serena Williams and World Cup winners Mia Hamm and Abby Wambach, among others, helped the Angel City bid.

Portman said: “Today we take an exciting step by announcing the first women majority-owned and led ownership group. I am thrilled by the opportunity to partner with this incredible group of people to bring a professional women’s soccer team to Los Angeles.  

"Together, we aim to build not only a winning team on the field, but also to develop a passionately loyal fan base. We also hope to make a substantive impact on our community, committing to extending access to sports for young people in Los Angeles through our relationship with the LA84 Foundation. 

"Sports are such a joyful way to bring people together, and this has the power to make tangible change for female athletes both in our community and in the professional sphere.”

The team will follow new side Racing Louisville FC who will join the league in 2021. 

Once City enter the NWSL there will be 11 teams in the league.

The LA based side are yet to recruit coaching staff and players.

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