NYCFC to Open Etihad Park in Summer 2027

Shibbir Ahmed, New York — New York City FC (NYCFC) announced that it will play its first match at Etihad Park, New York City’s first soccer-specific stadium, at the start of the 2027–28 Major League Soccer (MLS) season in summer 2027. The announcement comes as MLS prepares to transition to a new competition calendar. Before the new calendar takes effect, the league will stage a shortened transition season from February through May 2027, featuring a 14-game regular season, playoffs and MLS Cup.

During that transition season, NYCFC will continue playing its home matches at Yankee Stadium and Citi Field before moving into its new home at Etihad Park for the 2027–28 campaign.

“We cannot wait to welcome our fans for the first-ever New York City FC match at Etihad Park,” said Brad Sims, NYCFC chief executive officer. Sims said construction was progressing well and remained on schedule. He explained that opening the stadium at the beginning of a full MLS season would give supporters a more complete experience and align the venue’s debut with a new chapter for both the club and the league.

“Opening alongside a full season ensures our fans can experience Etihad Park from day one, rather than in the middle of a transition year,” Sims said. He added that the timing would allow the club to celebrate its final matches at Yankee Stadium and Citi Field, prepare for the move and deliver a major opening that reflects the stadium’s significance to the club and New York City.

NYCFC said it plans to hold test events in the months leading up to the start of the 2027–28 season to ensure the stadium is ready for its official opening. The club thanked supporters for their continued support and said it looked forward to beginning a new chapter at Etihad Park. The stadium is expected to become the club’s dedicated home, marking a significant milestone for NYCFC and its supporters.

NYCFC also outlined plans for City Members during the shortened 2027 transition season. According to the club, members will automatically receive tickets to transition-season matches at a flat rate consistent with their 2026 Membership plan, as previously communicated during the “Your First March to Etihad Park” renewal period in April. Additional information about priority access, invoices and payment plans will be communicated to members separately in the coming weeks.

With the stadium debut scheduled for summer 2027, NYCFC will spend the transition season playing at its existing home venues while preparing for its move to Etihad Park and the beginning of the new MLS competition calendar.