Gotham FC will begin playing home games at Etihad Park in Queens, New York, starting in 2028, marking the first time the reigning NWSL champions will be located within New York City limits. This significant move reflects the growth of women's soccer and the ongoing efforts to enhance fan experiences, according to NWSL commissioner Jessica Berman.
“I think this move is indicative of so much of the progress the NWSL has made,” Berman stated in an exclusive interview. “We know that in order to grow our fan base, we want to be able to provide them with the amenities and the fan experience that Americans have come to expect when they are supporting their local teams.”
Details of the New Stadium Agreement
The announcement regarding Gotham FC's new home will be made at New York City Hall alongside Mayor Zohran Mamdani and other officials. Etihad Park, which is set to open in spring 2027, will have a seating capacity of 25,000 and is primarily being constructed for MLS’s New York City FC, which has been operational since 2015.
As part of the agreement, Gotham FC will have its own locker room and the ability to showcase its branding on matchdays through digital signage, enhancing the fan experience.
Implications for Gotham FC and NWSL
“World-class athletes deserve world-class environments, and this move allows us to keep raising the standard for our players, supporters, and the game itself,” said Gotham FC controlling owner Carolyn Tisch Blodgett. The club has committed to investing in women's soccer and aims to create a unique experience for its fans.
Gotham's initial lease at Etihad Park is for five years, with options to extend up to 15 years. Previously, the team played at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey, but the new location in Queens aims to attract a larger fan base from the city.
Accessibility and Future Plans
Located across from Citi Field, home of the New York Mets, the new stadium will benefit from major subway and Long Island Railroad access, improving accessibility for fans throughout New York City and Long Island. Gotham FC will also host a match against the Washington Spirit at Citi Field on July 15, dubbed “The Queens Classic,” which has already sold nearly 38,000 tickets.
This match is expected to set a record for attendance at a women’s professional sporting event in New York City, serving as a proof of concept for the team's ability to draw significant fan interest.
🤖 This article was rewritten by Feed and Figures' editorial AI from a report originally published by ESPN Soccer. Facts and quotes are preserved from the original; the rewrite focuses on clarity and structure. For the unedited original, see the source link below.
