NYC Unveils ‘Etihad Park’: First Pro Soccer Stadium in Queens
New York City’s first professional soccer stadium will be called Etihad Park. This name comes from a new 20-year agreement with Etihad Airways. The stadium, which will hold 25,000 fans, is being built in Willets Point, Queens. It is expected to open in time for the 2027 season.
The stadium represents a significant investment in soccer in the United States, aiming to be a “cathedral of soccer,” according to NYCFC. The announcement followed a recent loss to the New York Red Bulls in the MLS Cup Eastern Conference semifinal.
Etihad Airways has been a partner of NYCFC since 2014. They have helped in community efforts like the New York City Soccer Initiative, which has built 50 mini-soccer pitches and expanded free soccer programs throughout the city. Brad Sims, the CEO of NYCFC, expressed pride in the partnership and the stadium’s development.
The stadium will serve as the home for NYCFC, which currently plays at Citi Field and Yankee Stadium. It will also host concerts and community events. Located near Citi Field, the stadium’s entrance will feature a striking cube design with vibrant colors to enhance visitor experience.
Interview with Brad Sims, CEO of NYCFC, on the Launch of Etihad Park
By News Directory 3 Editor
Q: Brad, can you share your thoughts on the announcement of Etihad Park as New York City’s first professional soccer stadium?
A: We are incredibly proud to announce Etihad Park, a vision that reflects our commitment to soccer in New York City. As part of our long-standing partnership with Etihad Airways, we believe this stadium will become a true “cathedral of soccer” for fans and the community alike.
Q: What inspired the name Etihad Park?
A: The name stems from our 20-year agreement with Etihad Airways, who have been with us since 2014. Their support in various community initiatives, like the New York City Soccer Initiative, has been essential in promoting soccer throughout the city. Naming the stadium after Etihad showcases our shared values and goals.
Q: Can you tell us more about the stadium’s design and capacity?
A: Etihad Park will host 25,000 fans and will feature a striking cube entrance design with vibrant colors. This design aims to enhance the visitor experience and echo the urban life and spirit of Queens. Additionally, it will stand as the first fully electric stadium in Major League Soccer, emphasizing our commitment to sustainability.
Q: Beyond soccer, what events can we expect to see hosted at the new stadium?
A: While Etihad Park will be the home for NYCFC, we envision it as a multifaceted venue that will also host concerts and community events. Our intent is to create a hub for diverse activities, inviting the community to engage with us in multiple ways.
Q: How does the stadium fit into the larger development at Willets Point?
A: The stadium is just one piece of a significant 23-acre redevelopment project in Willets Point. This initiative includes 2,500 affordable housing units, a school, and a hotel. It’s an essential step toward revitalizing the area, especially after previous redevelopment attempts fell through. We’re excited to bring a project to fruition that benefits the community.
Q: Many fans are curious about the financial aspects. What can you share about the stadium’s construction costs?
A: NYCFC is covering the $780 million construction cost of Etihad Park. We’ve secured a 49-year lease for the land, with an option to extend it for an additional 25 years. This investment underlines our commitment to not only soccer but also to the city’s long-term growth and development.
Q: with the stadium expected to open for the 2027 season, what’s your vision for NYCFC in the coming years?
A: As we prepare for the opening of Etihad Park, our focus is on building a sustainable, inclusive environment where soccer can thrive. We’re determined to strengthen our ties with the community and create unforgettable experiences for fans. The future is bright for NYCFC, and we can’t wait for everyone to experience the excitement of Etihad Park!
Etihad Park will be the first fully electric stadium in Major League Soccer and in New York City. Sims noted that the stadium aims to reflect the community and urban life, becoming a hub for various activities beyond soccer.
NYCFC is covering the stadium’s $780 million construction cost. The city is leasing the land for 49 years, with a potential 25-year extension.
The stadium is part of a larger 23-acre development, approved by the City Council, which will include 2,500 affordable housing units, a school, and a hotel. Previous redevelopment attempts for Willets Point have failed over the years. In 2019, plans were revived to include affordable housing, with the first phase starting last December.