Gotham FC Relocates to New York City

Gotham FC has made an exciting announcement: the NWSL team will now share Etihad Park with New York City FC after many years in New Jersey. This marks a significant shift for the club, as it will move into a new soccer-specific stadium currently under construction at Willets Point in Queens, set to open in 2028. This is the first time since the franchise was established that Gotham FC will be located in one of New York’s five boroughs.

Earlier this summer, reports confirmed that Gotham FC was in discussions with NYCFC to make this move to Queens. They’ll get a preview of this new home on July 15, when they host the Washington Spirit at Citi Field in an event dubbed the “Queens Classic.”

“From day one, our ambitions were bigger than just winning championships,” said Carolyn Tisch Blodgett, Governor of Gotham FC. “We’re working to build one of the most iconic clubs globally and redefine the future of women’s sports. Moving to Etihad Park embodies that ambition, and we sincerely appreciate the vision and commitment that made this historic moment possible.”

The announcement comes shortly after Gotham FC’s owners revealed plans to take over the former training facility of Red Bull New York in Whippany, NJ, and transform it into Gotham’s state-of-the-art training center.

Gotham FC has a long history with New Jersey, originating as Sky Blue FC, and has played at venues like Rutgers’ Yurkak Field and Sports Illustrated Stadium during its journey.

This season, Gotham has averaged 8,148 fans at Sports Illustrated Stadium, peaking with 11,308 fans attending a May 9 match against Boston Legacy FC, largely thanks to a partnership with Mayor Zoran Mamdani that offered $5 tickets for 1,000 fans.

As for the final season before the move, Gotham will continue to play in Harrison, New Jersey through 2027, welcoming fans until the transition is made.

Etihad Park is scheduled to officially debut for the 2027-28 MLS season, coinciding with NYCFC finally settling into a permanent home after years of playing at various venues like Yankee Stadium and Citi Field.

Incorporating Gotham FC into the stadium plans aligns with NYCFC’s goals. Club executives have openly expressed their interest in establishing a women’s team, with NYCFC’s CEO Brad Sims eluding to the topic in an interview, and COO Jennifer O’Sullivan stating back in March that it was a “guarantee,” although she wasn’t sure when.

“Bringing Gotham FC to Etihad Park is a vital step in realizing that promise and building a premier competition venue in New York City,” said Marty Edelman, NYCFC Vice President. “We appreciate Carolyn and the entire Gotham ownership group for their collaboration in making this moment a reality. We’re eager to work together to enhance the game, inspire future generations, and shape soccer’s future in New York and beyond.”