AFC Richmond, the fictional club from *Ted Lasso*, draws inspiration from the real-life Kansas City Current of the NWSL. The show’s fourth season features a pivotal scene filmed at CPKC Stadium, where the cast witnessed a Current match, mirroring the team’s real-world success. Angie Long, co-owner of the Current, called the collaboration “proof of concept,” highlighting how the show’s portrayal of a women’s team aligns with the league’s growth. The Current’s 11,500-seat stadium and sellout crowds since 2024 underscore its impact, while the Longs’ billion-dollar riverfront development around the stadium signals long-term investment.

Jason Sudeikis, who plays Ted Lasso, is a self-proclaimed fan of Kansas City and women’s sports, attending Current games regularly. The show’s premiere episode includes a private plane scene referencing the Longs’ real-life aircraft.

The NWSL, now in its 15th season, has evolved from FC Kansas City’s failed 2010s iteration to a 16-team league with rising valuations. Despite early struggles—like $6,000 salaries and team foldings—the league’s growth is now accelerating, with *Ted Lasso*’s 16.9 billion minutes streamed in 2023 amplifying its reach. The show’s 61 Emmy nominations and 13 wins further cement its cultural influence.

The partnership aims to attract new fans, with Temwa Chawinga’s goal in the episode blending fiction and reality. As the NWSL prepares for the 2031 Women’s World Cup, the tie-in reflects broader efforts to scale the league, balancing expansion with maintaining its core fanbase. *Ted Lasso*’s mix of humor and authenticity, including Kansas City barbecue and teal-clad cameos, bridges pop culture and women’s soccer’s rising profile.