The 2026 FIFA World Cup is just around the corner, the worldwide event comes every 4 years and every soccer fan tunes in whether it’s on TV or in the stadium, and this upcoming World Cup will be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico and the final will be at MetLife stadium in East Rutherford New Jersey. But this does beg the question how much influence is it going to have on soccer in the United States? In the U.S the top professional soccer league is Major League Soccer (MLS). Believe it or not, NYC has their own team called NYCFC. However NYCFC have one major issue: They play at Yankee Stadium. That is all about to change.
“Today we break ground on a once in a generation transformation of Queens” said New York State Assembly Member Jenifer Rajkumar back on December 4th 2024. The New York City Football Club (NYCFC) today officially broke ground on Etihad Park, New York’s first professional soccer-specific stadium and Major League Soccer’s (MLS) first fully-electric stadium across the nation. “The $780 million, 25,000-seat Etihad Park will be our first ever stadium dedicated to professional soccer, bringing the world’s most popular sport right to our doorsteps. This is the cornerstone of the landmark redevelopment of Willets Point that will deliver 15,000 good-paying jobs, 2,500 units of affordable housing, over 40,000 square feet of new public space, and 650 school seats. We are bringing unprecedented energy, investment, and activity to a corner of Queens, demonstrating what is possible when all stakeholders work together to shape the future of our city.“
One key feature of the new stadium is its strategic location in Queens, a borough known for its cultural diversity and vibrant atmosphere. The decision to build the stadium here is significant, as it reflects an understanding of the borough’s rich soccer heritage.
The long-awaited New York City Football Club (NYCFC) stadium has prospects not just for soccer lovers but also for local communities. As high school students who dream of playing professionally or merely hope to visit with friends and family. Ticket prices are promised to range around $40-50. The new stadium plans to offer state-of-the-art design and modern amenities, the stadium will not only serve as a home for NYCFC but also host other community events, concerts, and youth programs in the off season.
With a completion date set for 2027, the new NYCFC soccer stadium stands for opportunities and excitement. It represents the growth of soccer culture in New York City and offers countless benefits to the local community, from improved facilities to economic development and enhanced engagement in sports. As the stadium takes shape, students can look forward to a future where they can cheer on their team, participate in enriching programs, and perhaps even chase their dreams of becoming professional soccer players.
