Trump Celebrates Soccer Stadium Development in Queens
In Abu Dhabi, former President Trump highlighted his involvement in a $780 million soccer stadium project in Queens, stating, “I was born there.”
During a presentation, an Emirati official mentioned plans for over $300 million in investment towards the new 25,000-seat Etihad Park for the New York City Football Club, set to open in 2027.
“I know the area very well. I grew up in Queens,” Trump remarked about the Willett Point site near Citifield. “It’s a great location. A lot of work has been done there, including car repairs.”
“You did well with this,” he exclaimed, expressing familiarity with the place. “I saw you born here, I was born there. You chose a good spot.”
The groundbreaking ceremony for Etihad Park, named after the UAE’s national airline, occurred in December 2024, shortly after Trump secured his second term in office.
The NYCFC is part of City Football Group, which is primarily owned by Abu Dhabi United Group and founded by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, a notable figure in the UAE’s royal family.
Besides NYCFC, City Football Group also holds stakes in Manchester City, Melbourne Victory in Australia, Mumbai City in India, and Italian club Palermo.
Trump’s hosts also presented an upcoming Disney park on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. “That’s good, it’s really good,” he commented while viewing a rendering of the park, which is the first new Disney park in 15 years, planned for completion in the early 2030s.
UAE firms are involved in several U.S. projects, including a $4 billion aluminum smelter in Oklahoma that is expected to create 1,000 jobs.
“The money made here goes back to us,” Trump remarked about American businesses thriving in the region. He highlighted ongoing collaborations and the significance of partnerships with American companies like Exxon and Boeing.
During his visit, the White House noted that Trump had facilitated investment agreements exceeding $2 trillion.
Trump asserted, “Do you think Biden can do this? I don’t think so,” referring to the success of his investment deals.
Major agreements during his tour included Etihad and Qatar Airways committing to purchase over $110 billion worth of Boeing aircraft.
In Saudi Arabia, Trump finalized a deal for $142 billion in American-made arms as part of a larger $600 billion investment initiative.
Interestingly, Trump didn’t reference any ongoing projects tied to his own business interests in the countries he visited.
As he wrapped up the trip, Trump stated, “We’re in pretty good condition and we’re not pleading anymore.” He expressed admiration for the leaders he met, stating, “They are amazing people. They love our country, and we love them.”
