New York City FC revealed that the club will play its inaugural match at Etihad Park, the city’s first stadium built specifically for soccer, at the start of the 2027-28 Major League Soccer campaign in the summer of 2027. Prior to this, MLS will conduct a shortened transition season from February through May 2027, featuring a 14-game regular season, playoffs, and the MLS Cup, during which NYCFC will host home games at Yankee Stadium and Citi Field.
Progress and Vision for Etihad Park’s Opening
Brad Sims, CEO of New York City FC, expressed enthusiasm for the stadium’s progress and timely completion. He emphasized that launching Etihad Park alongside MLS’s new full season schedule marks a significant milestone for both the club and league.
“We cannot wait to welcome our fans for the first-ever New York City FC match at Etihad Park,” Brad Sims, New York City FC CEO
Sims noted that aligning the stadium’s debut with a full season ensures fans enjoy the complete Etihad Park experience from the outset, rather than interrupting the transition year. This approach also allows the club to properly honor their final matches at Yankee Stadium and Citi Field while preparing for a meaningful and historic move.
“Opening alongside a full season ensures our fans can experience Etihad Park from day one, rather than in the middle of a transition year. This approach allows us to properly celebrate our final matches at Yankee Stadium and Citi Field, prepare thoughtfully for the move, and build toward a definitive and historic opening that reflects what this moment means for us and our city,” Brad Sims, New York City FC CEO
Preparations and Fan Engagement Ahead of Opening
In the months leading up to the new season, New York City FC will conduct test events to guarantee the facility is fully operational for its launch. The club expressed deep appreciation for its supporters’ continued enthusiasm as they approach this next chapter.
“In the months leading up to the 2027-28 season, we will host test events to ensure everything is ready for opening day. We are incredibly grateful for our fans’ continued support and look forward to beginning this next chapter together at Etihad Park,” Brad Sims, New York City FC CEO
Membership and Ticketing Information for Transition Season
As communicated during the
“Your First March to Etihad Park”
renewal last April, City Members will receive transition season matches at a fixed rate reflective of their 2026 membership plan. Additional details regarding priority access, billing, and payment options will be shared with members soon. Fans interested in securing seats for the inaugural season can find more information and purchase tickets at EtihadPark.com.
