NYCFC to Debut at Etihad Park in 2027-28 MLS Season

New York City FC fans will experience a new era beginning with the 2027-28 Major League Soccer season, as the club will officially play their first match at Etihad Park . The debut coincides with a league-wide shift to a summer-to-spring schedule.

Transition Season at Yankee Stadium and Citi Field

Before fully transitioning to their new home, NYCFC will play home matches during a 14-game “transition season” in 2027 at Yankee Stadium and Citi Field . This allows fans one last opportunity to see professional soccer played at the baseball stadiums. The schedule for this transition season will be announced after the conclusion of the 2026 season .

Strategic Timing for Etihad Park Opening

According to NYCFC CEO Brad Sims, the decision to open Etihad Park with the 2027-28 season was deliberate . The aim is to ensure fans can experience the new stadium from the start of a full season, rather than mid-transition. This approach also allows for a proper celebration of the final matches at Yankee Stadium and Citi Field, and thoughtful preparation for the move .

MLS Schedule Shift

The opening of Etihad Park aligns with Major League Soccer’s shift to a summer-to-spring schedule, beginning in July 2027 and concluding in May 2028 , . This change aims to mirror the schedules of most European soccer leagues.

Test Events Planned

Prior to the official MLS season kickoff, NYCFC will host “test events” at Etihad Park to ensure the stadium is fully prepared for game days . Details regarding these events will be announced at a later date.

Continued Use of Existing Venues

Fans can expect at least one more Hudson River Derby to be played at either Citi Field or Yankee Stadium beyond the match already scheduled for September 18, 2026, in The Bronx .

Etihad Park and the 2028 Olympics

The new stadium is also slated to be a venue for soccer matches during the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics .