Atlanta City FC 2028 NWSL expansion team. The team announced its name and identity -- a red phoenix surrounded by a dogwood shape, laid inside a circular crest -- on Monday. An 'A' forms in the middle of the phoenix.

The team will wear red and Georgia peach, giving it a connection to -- with some distinction from -- the black, gold and red-wearing Atlanta United FC, the MLS team also owned by Arthur Blank's AMB Sports and Entertainment. Deandra Duggans, the team's chief business officer, told ESPN that the branding process took five to six months and included fan feedback. Atlanta City FC hopes to sell out Mercedes-Benz Stadium for its first kick in 2028.

The NWSL will expand by two teams in 2028, with a team in Columbus, Ohio, joining Atlanta to bring the league to 18 teams. Former Atlanta Beat players Cindy Parlow Cone and Cat Reddick Whitehill will attend the brand launch. Parlow Cone is the current president of U.S. Soccer.

Duggans confirmed the team will not use the 'Beat' nickname again but will honor its history. The tertiary wordmark for Atlanta City FC is 'ATL CT Y.' Peach will be a unique color in the NWSL.