New York City FC has revealed plans to open a new $780 million, 25,000-seat stadium near Citi Field in 2027, which will be named Etihad Park as part of a 20-year agreement with Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates. The parent company of NYCFC, City Football Group, which also owns Manchester City, will benefit from the revenue generated by the deal.
Brad Sims, the president of NYCFC, emphasized that the revenue from the agreement will solely go to the MLS team and not to the parent company or the English club, Manchester City, which is currently under investigation by the Premier League for financial fair play violations. Etihad Airways has been a sponsor of NYCFC since 2014 and Manchester City since 2009-2010.
The collaboration between NYCFC and Etihad Airways extends beyond sponsorship, with the airline supporting community initiatives and showing interest in the growth of soccer in the New York market. Since its inception in 2015, NYCFC has played home games at Yankee Stadium, but due to scheduling conflicts, they have also utilized Citi Field and other venues for matches.
The new stadium is part of a larger redevelopment project in Willets Point, approved by the New York City Council in April. The project includes housing units, a public school, hotel, and retail stores. Mets owner Steve Cohen is among the bidders for a casino license in the area adjacent to Citi Field, aiming to create a vibrant live-work-and-play neighborhood in Willets Point.
Sims highlighted the importance of coordinating schedules with the Mets and the U.S. Tennis Association, especially if MLS switches to an August-to-May schedule in the future. The new stadium is expected to provide benefits to NYCFC, particularly in the early years, by generating excitement around the venue.
Furthermore, MLS season ticket holders will have priority access to hospitality tickets for the 2026 World Cup, offering exclusive opportunities to purchase suites, club seats, and hospitality products. This initiative aims to enhance the experience for season ticket members and corporate partners, providing additional benefits and incentives.
As construction progresses and the groundbreaking of Etihad Park approaches, NYCFC looks forward to establishing a new home that will not only benefit the team but also contribute to the growth of soccer in the New York market. The partnership with Etihad Airways signifies a significant milestone for NYCFC and sets the stage for a promising future at Etihad Park.
