MLS’ Columbus Crew will move their game broadcasts to iHeartMedia’s “105.7 Columbus Alternative” WXZX Hilliard OH for the 2024 season starting this weekend.
WXZX supplants TEGNA’s “97.1 The Fan” WBNS-FM who had carried the franchise’s broadcasts since 2018. The franchise will also move its Spanish language broadcasts from La Mega Media’s “Mega 103.1” WVKO-FM to Radio One’s Regional Mexican “La Grande 102.5” WWLG. Chris Doran returns for his sixth season as the Crew’s English radio play-by-play voice, with Juan Valladares entering his 16th season as the Spanish play-by-play voice.
iHeartMedia Columbus announced today a broadcast agreement with MLS team Columbus Crew, effective through 2027.
As part of the deal, Columbus Crew games will broadcast on Columbus Alternative 105.7; Everything Alternative, and the iHeartRadio app. Chris Doran, the radio voice of The Crew, will serve as play-by-play announcer during the broadcasts.
“This is an exciting time for our organization as we launch a new partnership with iHeart, one of the largest media platforms in the country,” said Josh Glessing, Chief of Strategy & Development at Haslam Sports Group. “Welcoming iHeartMedia Columbus as our new English flagship radio station will allow our supporters to listen to a Crew match from anywhere and will help increase our already massive fanbase.”
“Columbus has embraced being a championship soccer city in a big way, and iHeartMedia Columbus is the perfect partner to grow the Crew’s audience and engagement through our industry-leading reach in the market and nationwide,” said Kevin LeGrett, President of iHeartSports. “This new partnership will bring the Crew to many fans, old and new, and will be a fantastic asset to the iHeartSports portfolio in the Columbus area.”
“When you think about the passion Central Ohio has for the Columbus Crew, you can see exactly why we are thrilled to be that giant mic to evangelize support for them,” said Kris Foley, Division President of iHeartMedia. “Not only will they be top of mind on Columbus Alternative 105.7, but across all iHeart properties in Columbus, where we reach 90% of residents.”
Fans can tune in for the first game on February 24, 2024, against Atlanta United at 2 p.m. ET.
