Overview
- New York City FC announced July 17, 2027 as the date for its first home match at Etihad Park, a decision made public by CEO Brad Sims at an MLS media event.
- Sims called the opening the culmination of a more than decade-long effort to secure a permanent, city-based home for the club and said supporters and players reacted with excitement.
- During the announcement the club also confirmed defender Kevin O’Toole signed a contract extension through the 2028‑29 season with an option for 2029‑30.
- Etihad Park is a 25,000-seat, soccer-specific stadium under construction at Willets Point next to Citi Field that carries naming rights from Etihad Airways.
- As MLS moves to a summer-to-spring calendar with a condensed February–May 2027 sprint season, NYCFC will play most home games at Yankee Stadium and Citi Field and the new venue is slated to host Gotham FC in 2028 and soccer matches for the 2028 Olympics.