National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) club Gotham FC announced Tuesday that it will relocate to Queens, New York, beginning in 2028, sharing the newly constructed Etihad Park with Major League Soccer's New York City FC (NYCFC).
This move will mark the first time in the franchise's history that Gotham FC will be based within the five boroughs of New York City. For years, the team has played its home games in New Jersey.
Etihad Park, a soccer-specific stadium located in Willets Point, Queens, is slated to open for the 2027-28 MLS season, when NYCFC will also move into the venue after a history of playing home matches at various sites including Yankee Stadium and Citi Field.
Gotham FC's relocation to Queens fulfills a stated ambition of NYCFC executives. Club leadership had previously expressed a desire to host a women's team at Etihad Park. "Welcoming Gotham FC to Etihad Park is an important step in delivering on that promise and building a world-class home for the game in New York City," Marty Edelman, NYCFC co-vice chairman, said in a statement. "We are grateful to Carolyn and the entire Gotham ownership group for their partnership in making this moment possible."
Gotham FC governor Carolyn Tisch Blodgett stated, "From day one, our ambition has been bigger than championships. We are building one of the world’s most iconic clubs and helping define the future of women’s sports. Our move to Etihad Park reflects that ambition."
Before their permanent move to Queens, Gotham FC is scheduled to play a match at Citi Field on July 15, dubbed "The Queens Classic," when they host the Washington Spirit. The team will play one final season in Harrison, New Jersey, in 2027 before commencing play at Etihad Park.
Gotham FC has averaged 8,148 fans this season at its current home, Sports Illustrated Stadium. The club has a history of playing at various New Jersey venues, including Rutgers' Yurcak Field and Sports Illustrated Stadium, dating back to their origins as Sky Blue FC.
In addition to the stadium move, Gotham FC's ownership recently announced plans to take over and develop the former Red Bull New York training facility in Whippany, New Jersey, into a state-of-the-art training center for the club.