New York City FC Unveils Plans for Soccer-Specific Stadium in Queens

New York City FC (NYCFC) has recently released images of its proposed soccer-specific stadium, which is set to be built in the Willets Point neighbourhood in Queens. The stadium is expected to have a seating capacity of 25,000 and is part of a $780 million project that the club hopes to complete in time for the 2027 Major League Soccer (MLS) season.

Community Revitalisation Efforts

NYCFC’s new stadium is not only expected to be a permanent home for the club, but it is also set to be the largest affordable housing development in New York City in 40 years. The stadium is part of a larger community revitalisation effort spearheaded by New York City mayor Eric Adams. The project will include various retail and food outlets, a school, a hotel, over 40,000 square feet of public space, and pedestrian-friendly streets.

NYCFC’s Stadium Design Principles

NYCFC’s new stadium was designed using five core principles: creating the best possible live experience for football fans in New York, representing the city authentically, being embedded organically into the local community, being future-proof, and being built sustainably. The stadium will have a modern design with single-tier “Kop” style stands on three sides and a large, four-tier executive stand on the other. The stadium will also have designated safe standing areas and will be a community resource on non-match days.

Inspiration from Existing Stadiums

The location of the NYCFC stadium in the heart of an urban neighbourhood was inspired by several existing stadiums around the world, including Fulham’s Craven Cottage. The stadium’s main entrance will be a giant illuminated “cube” on the southwest corner of the plot, which will project dynamic imagery on match days and serve as a welcoming gateway for fans.

NYCFC has been playing its home games at Yankee Stadium since 2015, but scheduling conflicts have often forced the club to stage matches in New Jersey and Connecticut in recent years. With the new stadium project gaining approval, the club hopes to have a long overdue permanent home and contribute to the revitalisation of the neighbourhood.