Etihad Airways Secures Naming Rights For New Yorks First Ever Football Stadium

The 20-year agreement will see Etihad Airways retain the exclusive naming rights for New York City FC’s stadium being built in Willets Point, Queens.

The stadium will be part of the new, 23-acre neighbourhood at Willets Point, Queens, which will feature 2,500 new affordable housing units, a new 650-seat public school, a -new hotel, and more than 150,000 square feet of public open space.

Etihad Park in New York

The Willets Point redevelopment project is estimated to generate $6.1bn in economic activity, create 1,550 permanent jobs, and 14,200 construction jobs.

Brad Sims, New York City FC CEO, said: “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.

“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.”

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.”

The UAE carrier has been with New York City FC from the club’s beginning, expanding the partnership over the past decade. In 2014, Etihad Airways started as a principal and founding partner of New York City FC and became the front-of-shirt partner for the club’s first team and boys academy.

Earlier this year, the New York City Council voted overwhelmingly to approve the next phase of the Willets Point Redevelopment project, including New York City FC’s stadium.

The new stadium will be 100 per cent privately financed, seat approximately 25,000 people, and be the first fully electric sports stadium in New York City and all Major League Soccer.

The stadium is scheduled to open ahead of the 2027 MLS regular season.