With a shared vision and commitment to women’s soccer and the greater Seattle community, Sounders FC Owners and Carlyle have united to usher in a new era for Reign FC. Maya Mendoza-Exstrom has been appointed Chief Business Officer at Reign FC, leading a women-led leadership team after a decade with Sounders FC.
Following the completion of a final Purchase and Sale Agreement, the Ownership Group of Seattle Sounders FC and global investment firm Carlyle have invested in and will operate the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) club Seattle Reign FC. This agreement marks the first time topflight teams in women’s and men’s professional soccer have united in Seattle's history.
Sounders FC Owner Adrian Hanauer expressed his enthusiasm: “Today is a milestone day for soccer in our city and I am humbled to be a part of it. This announcement is about keeping one of the top women’s teams in the world locally rooted in our community for generations of fans to enjoy.”
Hanauer will serve as Governor of Reign FC on the NWSL Board of Governors, while Carlyle’s Head of Private Credit, Alex Popov, will serve as Alternate Governor. Popov stated, “Today marks a significant occasion for professional women’s soccer in the United States and the greater Seattle sports community.”
Carlyle has deployed more than $4 billion into sports, media, and entertainment sectors since 2018. Popov added that there is "a massive disconnect between the excitement around women’s soccer and investment levels," emphasizing their commitment to bridging this gap.
NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman welcomed the new ownership group: “Combining operational expertise with financial investment positions Seattle Reign FC for success.”
Maya Mendoza-Exstrom steps into her role as Chief Business Officer after ten years with Sounders FC. She remarked, "I am excited and deeply honored to step into a role of leadership for Seattle Reign FC."
Reign FC is one of NWSL's most successful clubs, having made seven postseason appearances over its first 11 seasons. The club plays home matches at Lumen Field in Seattle.
The joint venture between Carlyle & Sounders FC Ownership aims to invest wisely while creating value on behalf of investors, portfolio companies, and communities. Carlyle manages $425 billion worth of assets globally.
Seattle Reign FC was established in 2012 as an NWSL founding member. The league includes clubs such as Angel City FC, Bay FC, Boston Red Stars among others.
For further information or media inquiries:
- Seattle Sounders FC: Alex Caulfield (206-512-1225); AlexC@SoundersFC.com
- Carlyle: Kristen Ashton (212-813-4763); Kristen.Ashton@Carlyle.com
- Seattle Reign FC: Ryan Perez (808-212-4018); Ryan@ReignFC.com
- Viewpoint (Agency): Nicki Fioravante (310-388-3333); Nicki.Fioravante@viewpointla.com
