NYCFC's Etihad Park Opening Delayed to Summer 2027

New stadium's debut pushed back to align with MLS's shift to summer-to-spring schedule

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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New York City FC fans will have to wait until the 2027-28 MLS season to experience a match at their new home, Etihad Park. The announcement, made on February 18, 2026, pushes back the opening from the originally planned 2027 season. This delay is directly linked to MLS's move to a summer-to-spring schedule, which aims to capitalize on better weather conditions and increased viewership during prime time.

Why it matters

The delay highlights the complexities of coordinating stadium openings with league-wide schedule changes. It suggests that future MLS stadium projects may need to be more flexible and account for potential shifts in the league calendar. The decision to wait for the full 2027-28 season allows for a more impactful launch and a seamless fan experience, which could turn into a model for other clubs planning new stadiums.

The details

During the 2027 'transition' season, NYCFC will continue to play most home games at Yankee Stadium and Citi Field – venues the club has utilized since its inception in 2015. The 25,000-seat Etihad Park, located adjacent to the New York Mets' Citi Field, represents a significant investment in soccer-specific infrastructure in New York City. Beyond MLS matches, the stadium is slated to host soccer matches during the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, highlighting its importance as a multi-purpose sporting venue.

  • The announcement was made on February 18, 2026.
  • NYCFC will continue to play most home games at Yankee Stadium and Citi Field during the 2027 transition season.
  • Etihad Park is slated to open in the 2027-28 MLS season.

The players

Brad Sims

NYCFC's CEO.

City Football Group

The controlling owner of NYCFC, which also owns Manchester City.

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What they’re saying

“The 2027/28 season is 'the right moment to open Etihad Park' to ensure fans can experience the stadium from day one, rather than mid-transition.”

— Brad Sims, NYCFC's CEO (newsy-today.com)

What’s next

The club plans to hold 'test events' at the new stadium before the official opening in July 2027.

The takeaway

NYCFC's situation highlights the importance of a phased approach to stadium openings, allowing for a more impactful launch and a seamless fan experience. This strategy could turn into a model for other clubs planning new stadiums as they navigate the evolving landscape of MLS and stadium development.