Columbus Crew

The Columbus Crew is one of the original clubs in Major League Soccer (MLS). It has been based in Columbus, Ohio, since the league’s first season in 1996.¹ Known for their black-and-gold team colors and strong supporter culture, the Columbus Crew have built a reputation for competitive consistency, ample achievements, and passionate matchday environments.

Home matches bring together long-standing traditions, coordinated supporter chants, and a soccer-specific stadium atmosphere that keeps fans close to the action. Columbus Crew tickets are available through AXS, giving fans access to one of MLS’s founding clubs with a lasting legacy and contemporary competitive edge.

Founded in 1994 as one of the 10 inaugural franchises in MLS, the Columbus Crew began league play in 1996.¹ The Crew played their first game against D.C. United, beating the team 4-0 at Ohio Stadium.¹ That same year the team made their first-ever playoff debut.

Over the years, the club has experienced multiple championship moments, including MLS Cup titles in 2008, 2020, and 2023.¹ The Crew were also the first MLS team to play in a soccer-specific stadium when their original venue, Columbus Crew Stadium, opened in 1999.¹ The Columbus Crew now play at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field, formerly known as Lower.com.² As one of MLS’s longest-standing clubs, Columbus has contributed to the growth and development of professional soccer in the United States.

The Columbus Crew play at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field in downtown Columbus, Ohio, which used to be known as Lower.com field. ScottsMiracle-Gro Field is a soccer-specific stadium in downtown Columbus that opened in 2021.³ The venue seats approximately 20,000 fans and is located behind Huntington Park, home of the Columbus Clippers, the triple-A affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians.³

ScottsMiracle-Gro Field is conveniently located in the Arena District of Columbus, which hosts all four of the city’s professional sports teams. This area is known for lively restaurants, bars, and other forms of entertainment.

The stadium features a continuous wraparound roof, a 360-degree concourse, flexible event space, and a 3,400-capacity standing section for supporters.³ It also features two patio decks, the “Nordecke Beer Garden”, a first for Major League Soccer, and a 5,000-square-foot brew hall that remains open even on non-match days.³

The Columbus Crew have established a competitive legacy through league championships and domestic success.

• MLS Cup Champions (2008, 2020, 2023): The Columbus Crew have earned three MLS Cup titles, highlighting multiple championship eras and making it one of Central Ohio’s most popular sports to watch.¹
• Supporters’ Shield (2004, 2008, 2009): Awarded to the team with the best regular-season record, the Columbus Crew have claimed the Shield three times.¹
• U.S. Open Cup Winners (2002): The Columbus Crew won the historic domestic knockout tournament, adding to its early-era accomplishments.⁴

The MLS regular season typically runs from late winter through fall, with additional playoff and tournament matches throughout the year. Columbus Crew tickets are available now through AXS, making it easy to plan ahead for upcoming home matches.