Tim Bezbatchenko Returns to Ohio: Leading Haslam Sports Group's Global Soccer Ventures
Haslam Sports Group (HSG), the owner of the Columbus Crew, has announced that Tim Bezbatchenko, the former Crew General Manager, will be returning to Ohio as HSG’s president of global soccer. Bezbatchenko, who left the Crew in 2024 to work with Black Knight Football Club, will now oversee all of Haslam's soccer ventures, including the Crew and the upcoming National Women’s Soccer League team in Columbus. The women’s team is set to debut in 2028, and Bezbatchenko will lead the search for the team’s roster and leadership.
With over 17 years of experience in soccer leadership roles, Bezbatchenko will take on his new position once his contract with Black Knight Football Club concludes. During his previous tenure with the Crew from 2019 to 2024, Bezbatchenko collaborated closely with current Crew General Manager Issa Tall. A native of Westerville, Ohio, Bezbatchenko has strong connections to central Ohio, having attended St. Francis DeSales High School. His family has been season ticket holders for the Columbus Crew since the team's inaugural season in 1996.
Bezbatchenko played a pivotal role in the Crew's success, contributing to their two MLS Cup victories in 2020 and 2023, as well as the 2021 Campeones Cup win. He was instrumental in bringing in key players like Diego Rossi, Cucho Hernandez, and Yevhen Cheberko. Additionally, Bezbatchenko hired former Crew coach Wilfried Nancy, who departed in 2025 to lead Scotland’s Celtic FC. Currently, the Crew is without a permanent head coach following the departure of Henrik Rydström, with Laurent Courtois serving as the interim coach.
Despite the coaching transition, the Crew secured a victory in Courtois’ coaching debut and are gearing up to face Atlanta United at home on Sunday at 5 p.m. Bezbatchenko's return to Ohio signifies a significant step in advancing soccer in Central Ohio and beyond, reflecting his family's enduring commitment to the sport and the community.