Peyton Manning joins Denver NWSL franchise ownership team - ESPN

Hall of Fame quarterback Peyton Manning has joined the ownership group of the Denver NWSL expansion franchise that will begin play next year.

Manning is a five-time NFL MVP and a two-time Super Bowl champion who played his final four seasons with the Denver Broncos, retiring in 2016 shortly after leading the Broncos to a Super Bowl title.

«It's a real honor to be part of something so meaningful to the Colorado community,» Manning said in a statement. «I'm proud to support the growth of women's sports and excited to help build a club that our city and our state can rally behind.»

Manning is one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history. He holds numerous league records, including marks for single-season passing yards and touchdowns.

His five league MVP awards is also a record. Manning was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2021.

«Peyton's legacy as a champion and a leader is second to none,» Denver NWSL controlling owner Rob Cohen said in a statement. «His impact on Colorado sports is unmatched, and we're incredibly proud to have him as a partner. He brings passion, insight, and deep local roots — all of which will help us shape the future of Denver NWSL.»

Since retiring, Manning has gone into the media and production space. «Monday Night Football with Peyton and Eli» [Manning, his brother and former NFL quarterback] airs on ESPN and has won multiple Sports Emmy awards.

Eli Manning is a minority investor in Gotham FC.

Denver NWSL also recently announced two-time Olympic champion Alpine skier Mikaela Shiffrin as part of its ownership group.

Cohen is a Colorado-based insurance executive who leads the ownership group.

Other investors include Ariel Investments' Project Level, led by president and co-CEO Mellody