The Northern Super League is considering the addition of a seventh team in 2027, with significant interest from international investors, as stated by Diana Matheson, one of the league’s co-founders. Initially, there were discussions about expanding by two teams in 2027, but Matheson, who also serves as the league’s chief growth officer and co-owner of the Ottawa Rapid, has indicated a shift in strategy.
“We have decided to focus on adding one team in 2027 to target Central Canada and Western Canada more effectively,” Matheson mentioned in an interview. The league aims to achieve geographical balance and enhance player development opportunities by seeking the seventh team from Manitoba to British Columbia.
Matheson highlighted that the league has garnered attention from potential owners in the United States and Europe. “Many individuals see women’s sports as a growing sector, and they recognize Canada as a key market within this industry,” she explained.
With the Professional Women’s Hockey League operating as a single-entity league, the NSL presents an opportunity to invest in women’s sports in Canada. Matheson emphasized the importance of establishing strong local connections within new ownership groups while also acknowledging the likelihood of international interest in investing in a new Canadian club.
While the initial franchise fee for the league was $1 million, it was estimated that $8 million to $10 million in total capital investment would be required over the first five seasons, along with necessary spending on infrastructure. Although these figures have since increased, Matheson did not disclose the exact amount.
A seven-team league structure allows for a balanced schedule, with each team playing the others four times—twice at home and twice away—in a projected 24-game season. Additionally, having seven teams enables a bye week for each team, offering scheduling flexibility due to limited soccer infrastructure in Canada.
As of now, there is no set timeline for the addition of an eighth franchise, according to Matheson. The league has formed an expansion committee comprising current team owners, league representatives, and the Whitecap Sports Group (WSG), an international investment bank and advisory firm based in Florida that is assisting in identifying potential new owners.
WSG recently launched a women’s sports division, spearheaded by former NWSL player Chelsee Washington, with NSL expansion being its inaugural project. The league’s 2025 season will culminate with the championship game on November 15 at Toronto’s BMO Field.