New York City FC and Etihad Airways have announced that New York City’s first-ever football-specific stadium will be officially named Etihad Park.
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 150,000sq ft 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.
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 US. 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.”
