Bay FC on track to set new NWSL record this weekend

   The professional women’s game in the United States continues to break records in all departments, with the latest about to fall in the attendance category.  

On Saturday, Bay FC is expecting to smash the existing National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) record currently held by Chicago Stars FC, who drew 35,038 supporters in 2024 to Wrigley Field, home to MLB’s Chicago Cubs. 

Oracle Park, home to MLB’s San Francisco Giants, will welcome the Washington Spirit, and with 35,000+ tickets already sold, a record crowd is all but guaranteed. This will be the first professional women’s soccer game played at the venue, which has previously seen the likes of Real Madrid, Manchester City and the U.S. men’s national team. 

“We are incredibly proud of what this match means for Bay FC, for the Bay Area, and for the NWSL,” Bay FC CEO Brady Stewart said. “To set a new attendance record is a reflection of the passion and energy our fans bring every time we step on the field. This is about more than just a match; it is about pushing boundaries and creating something bigger than ourselves. 

“Everyone who is at Oracle Park Saturday has the chance to be part of history and together show the world what’s possible in women’s sports.” 

Usually, Bay FC play their home matches at PayPal Park in San Jose, where they average a healthy 13,400 per match. Despite the team being in a slump, going five matches without a win, enthusiasm has not been dampened. 

“This is a landmark moment not just for Bay FC or the NWSL, but for the future of women’s professional sports in the United States,” NWSL commissioner Jessica Berman said. “Breaking the league’s single-match attendance record at a venue as iconic as Oracle Park is a testament to the growing demand, passion and momentum behind our league. 

“This match is only the beginning of our celebration of women’s soccer in the Bay Area, as we gear up to return in November to host the 2025 NWSL Championship, and the energy and enthusiasm we’re seeing now sets the stage for an unforgettable finish to the season.” 

“World-class, professional soccer should be played in world-class, professional soccer stadiums,” says NWSL Players Association executive director Meghann Burke. “The NWSLPA generally opposes games being played on converted surfaces like baseball fields, and that’s why the players fought so hard for the prohibition against it. 

“Last season, we agreed to a one-time exception for Wrigley as part of a broader strategic plan to make the case for a new home for the Stars. This year, we’ve agreed to a one-time exception for Oracle as part of Bay’s search for a permanent home.”