Rose Lavelle Signs Contract Extension with Gotham FC Through 2029

Gotham FC has secured the commitment of U.S. Women's National Team star Rose Lavelle through the 2029 season with a contract extension. The deal, announced Tuesday, will keep the midfielder with the club for an additional three years.

To accommodate Lavelle's new salary, Gotham utilized the National Women's Soccer League's (NWSL) new High Impact Player (HIP) rule. This mechanism, introduced earlier this year, allows teams to allocate additional funds beyond the standard salary cap for top players who meet specific benchmarks, aiming to attract and retain elite talent within the league.

Yael Averbuch West, Gotham's president of soccer operations, lauded Lavelle as "one of the best players in the world" and expressed pride in her commitment to the club. "She has an extraordinary ability to change games, and we’ve seen her deliver for this club in the biggest moments," Averbuch West stated. "Just as importantly, Rose embodies the ambition and competitive standard we want at Gotham FC. We’re thrilled that she will continue to be such an important part of what we’re building."

Lavelle, 31, has become a pivotal figure for Gotham since her arrival in 2024, contributing world-class skill, creativity, and clutch performances. She was instrumental in the team's 2025 championship victory, scoring the decisive goal in the NWSL title match and earning MVP honors for that game. Despite receiving aggressive offers from other teams, Lavelle chose to re-sign with Gotham.

"I’m incredibly happy to extend my time with Gotham FC," Lavelle said in a statement. "From the moment I arrived, this club has challenged me to keep growing and has given me the opportunity to compete for championships alongside a great group of players and staff. I’m really proud of what we’ve accomplished together, but I feel like there is still so much ahead of us. I’m excited to continue building something special here."

Lavelle has recorded four goals and two assists in the current season, playing a significant role in Gotham's success. The club has already clinched a playoff berth and currently leads the NWSL standings with a 16-6-4 record as the regular season enters its final month.

Lavelle's extension follows similar commitments from other key players, including defender Emily Sonnett (through 2028), midfielder Jaedyn Shaw (through 2029), and forward Sam Kerr (through 2030). These renewals solidify the team's core as it prepares to relocate to the new Etihad Park in Queens for the 2028 season.