New York City FC (NYCFC) has officially announced that Etihad Park will open its doors at the start of the 2027-28 Major League Soccer season. While construction remains on schedule, the club has strategically shifted the opening date to align with MLS’s historic transition to a European-style summer-to-spring calendar.
The 25,000-capacity, all-electric stadium in Willets Point will be the first major-league sports venue built in New York City since the Barclays Center opened in 2012.
The Road to Etihad Park: Transition Timeline
Because MLS is shifting its competition calendar, 2027 will feature a unique “split” schedule. NYCFC will utilize this period to say a proper farewell to its temporary homes before moving into its permanent residence.
- Early 2027: NYCFC will play a shortened 14-week transition season at Yankee Stadium and Citi Field.
- Summer 2027: Official move-in and the inaugural match at Etihad Park to kick off the 2027-28 full season.
- Pre-Opening: The club will host several test events in the months leading up to the debut to ensure the facility is match-ready.
A New Era for Willets Point
Etihad Park is the centerpiece of a massive revitalization project for the Willets Point area. The stadium is being built with sustainability at its core and will be surrounded by:
- 2,500 new affordable homes
- A new public school and a hotel
- Close proximity to Citi Field and the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center.
The venue has also gained international prestige before even opening; earlier this month, it was officially named as a host venue for football matches at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
“Opening alongside a full season ensures our fans can experience Etihad Park from day one, rather than in the middle of a transition year. Construction is progressing incredibly well, and we remain on schedule,” — Brad Sims, NYCFC Chief Executive.