Bay FC made history on Saturday, drawing a record-breaking sellout crowd of 40,091 spectators to MLB`s Oracle Park for their match against the Washington Spirit. This monumental event marks the second time Bay FC has been involved in an NWSL attendance milestone, having previously participated in last year`s then-record crowd of 35,038 at Wrigley Field. While Bay FC was a crucial part of breaking the record last year, they now exclusively hold the title for the most attended match in NWSL history. The Washington Spirit ultimately secured a 3-2 victory in the game, with goals scored by Kate Wiesner and Croix Bethune.
In a club statement, Bay FC expressed the profound significance of this achievement: “Breaking the NWSL attendance record is a historic moment that extends far beyond a single match. It represents the foundation we are building at Bay FC and the legacy we hope to leave for future generations of players and fans. By pushing boundaries today, we are shaping what women`s football will look like tomorrow. Special thanks to each and every Bay Area fan. You made this historic moment possible.”
This new attendance figure not only surpasses all previous NWSL records since the league`s inception in 2013 but also establishes a new benchmark for any professional women`s sports league in the United States, highlighting the growing popularity and impact of women`s soccer.
Despite the record-setting crowd, the loss meant Bay FC faces a tougher path toward a playoff spot, now trailing the playoff line by four points after Week 17. The Washington Spirit`s victory, conversely, propelled them into second place with 31 points. They are now ahead of third-place San Diego Wave FC, who currently have 29 points and a game against Racing Louisville scheduled for Sunday.
Most Attended NWSL Games in History
- 40,091 at Oracle Park for Bay FC vs. Washington Spirit (2024) – New Record
- 35,038 at Wrigley Field for Chicago Stars vs. Bay FC (2024)
- 34,148 at Lumen Field for Seattle Reign vs. Washington Spirit (2023)
- 32,262 at Snapdragon Stadium for San Diego Wave vs. Seattle Reign (2023)
- 32,066 at Snapdragon Stadium for San Diego Wave vs. KC Current (2024)
