Etihad Lands Naming Rights to New York City FC’s New Stadium

Etihad has increased its presence in the world of sports sponsorship by putting its name to New York City FC’s new stadium.

This will be the first purpose-built soccer stadium in New York and is currently being built in Willets Point in the New York borough of Queens.

Etihad has been involved with New York City FC for over a decade and is also chief sponsor to its more famous sister club – Manchester City.

Etihad Park – as it will be called – is scheduled to open ahead of the 2027 MLS (US Major League Soccer) regular season.

The new stadium will also be part of a new, 23-acre neighbourhood at Willets Point, Queens, which will feature 2,500 new affordable housing units, a new 650-seat public school, a brand-new hotel, and more than 150,000 square feet of public open space. The Willets Point redevelopment project is estimated to generate $6.1bn in economic activity, create 1,550 permanent jobs, and 14,200 construction jobs.

Antonoaldo Neves, Etihad Airways CEO, said: “We are delighted to sponsor the naming rights of this fantastic venue, which I am sure will become a landmark sports destination in the US. We have been backing New York City FC since the start in 2014 and this marks the latest chapter in our support for the Club.

“Our values as an airline align perfectly with New York City FC and their commitment to New York City, through promoting soccer in the local neighbourhoods and providing spaces for everyone to play.”

“This is an historic announcement for New York City FC, Etihad Airways, and New York City. Etihad Airways has been a fantastic partner to the club for over a decade, and we are proud to call Etihad Park the home of our great club,” said Brad Sims, New York City FC CEO. “For over a decade, we’ve been investing in New York with a vision of building the city into one of the soccer capitals of the world. Etihad Airways has been alongside us every step of the way and we’re thrilled to be making this announcement with them. Etihad Park will be the physical evidence of our deep and longstanding investment in New York City and will become a cathedral of soccer in the United States.”

“Etihad Park was designed to celebrate the essence of community and the vibrant life found in urban parks, much like New York City’s iconic green spaces that serve as gathering spots for people from all walks of life. We hope that Etihad Park becomes a central hub for the community, as it will host not only sporting events, but also concerts, festivals, and community activities, fostering a sense of belonging and connection for all New Yorkers,” he added.