June 10, 2024 – National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL)
Washington Spirit News Release
Washington, D.C. – The Washington Spirit announced today a historic global soccer event bringing English powerhouses Arsenal and Chelsea to the U.S. for a first-of-its-kind international competition. The inaugural Washington Spirit International Friendlies will feature some of the world’s greatest soccer players this August at Audi Field in Washington, D.C.
Spirit owner Michele Kang is building the preeminent sports organization in the world, with the Spirit being central to her vision as her first foray into women’s sports. Since taking over ownership of the club in 2022, Kang has trailblazed a new standard for the business of women’s sports. This summer’s premiere event will give fans unprecedented access to global club soccer competition.
“This is a major step in growing the women’s game at home and abroad as the best in England face the best in the United States,” said Spirit CEO Kim Stone. “We are very proud to offer global soccer followers unprecedented access to some of the top club competition in the world. We will welcome fans live at Audi Field or through our exclusive media partner, DAZN, who will stream the matches for free.”
The Spirit will make soccer history when the side faces Arsenal in its first-ever U.S. appearance on Sunday, August 18, at 2 p.m. EDT at Audi Field. The 14-time English Women’s Super League champion is the most successful club in English women’s soccer history. Arsenal star and Ashburn, Virginia native Emily Fox will face U.S. women’s national team (USWNT) teammates Trinity Rodman, Casey Krueger, Aubrey Kingsbury and Andi Sullivan for this landmark matchup.
“To take our women’s team to the US for the first time on tour is another sign of great progress,” said Arsenal Managing Director Richard Garlick. “We know from our recent trip to Australia that the interest and love for Arsenal Women stretches far and wide. We want to build on that and bring our US supporters closer to the club. We look forward to our visit and building strong foundations for a momentous season ahead, which will see more women’s games come to Emirates Stadium.”
On August 25, world-class soccer action continues with an unprecedented doubleheader at Audi Field. The Washington Spirit will return to National Women’s Soccer League regular season play, facing the undefeated Kansas City Current at noon EDT. Following this match, at 4 p.m. EDT, fans can witness one of…