- The Washington Times - Wednesday, October 1, 2025

The NWSL’s Washington Spirit are giving back to federal workers impacted by the government shutdown, handing out hundreds of free tickets to civil servants on Wednesday. 

The tickets will bring fans to Audi Field on Sunday for the team’s final home game — a fan appreciation match against the San Diego Wave. 

“During these uncertain times, we know that many of you feel the weight of furloughs and others are coping with painful layoffs,” the team wrote in a letter to fans on Wednesday. “The halls of government may fall silent, but your service and sacrifice echo louder than ever in this region.”



The Spirit gave away 200 free tickets to federal employees. The club also offered $10 tickets to all other fans. 

“The DMV never gives up on its own,” the franchise said. “Strength and resilience are in our DNA and kindness lives in us.”

The Spirit are currently second in the NWSL table with four regular-season matches remaining.

• Liam Griffin can be reached at lgriffin@washingtontimes.com.

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