Columbus Crew joined Major League Soccer in 1996, becoming part of the league's original lineup. As one of the original MLS franchises, the club has been part of the league since its very first season.
Since their founding, Columbus Crew has worked to build a strong identity in Columbus, investing in youth development, community outreach, and on-field competitiveness. The club's history is intertwined with the growth of soccer culture in Ohio and the broader expansion of MLS across North America.