The reigning NWSL champions are reportedly in talks to move home matches to a new Queens stadium, fueling speculation that Phil Murphy’s soccer club could leave New Jersey after years in Harrison.
Harrison, NJ – Gotham FC, the National Women’s Soccer League club co-founded by former New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy and Tammy Murphy, is reportedly exploring a move from New Jersey to New York City as early as the 2027 or 2028 season.
According to multiple reports, the club has held discussions about becoming a tenant at Etihad Park, New York City FC‘s new 25,000-seat soccer-specific stadium under construction in Queens. The privately funded venue is expected to open in 2027, although no agreement or timeline has been officially announced.
Branding has increasingly shifted toward New York
The potential relocation follows a series of branding changes that have emphasized New York over New Jersey. The club has quietly dropped the “NJ/NY” designation from its name, now marketing itself simply as Gotham FC.
The team also recently unveiled a third jersey featuring New York City colors and imagery inspired by the Statue of Liberty. Gotham FC is scheduled to host a home match against the Washington Spirit at Citi Field in Queens on July 15, a move widely viewed as an opportunity to gauge fan interest in New York City.
The franchise currently shares Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison with Major League Soccer’s New York Red Bulls.
New Jersey investment remains significant
Despite reports of a possible stadium move, Gotham FC continues to invest heavily in New Jersey. The club is moving forward with a privately funded $35 million renovation of its training facility in Whippany, where it plans to operate under a 15-year lease.
That investment suggests the organization intends to maintain a substantial presence in New Jersey even if regular-season matches are eventually played across the Hudson River.
Gotham FC traces its roots to Sky Blue FC, which officially rebranded as NJ/NY Gotham FC in 2021. The organization sought to establish a stronger regional identity while distancing itself from years of criticism over player treatment, inadequate facilities, and organizational instability that plagued the franchise before new ownership took control.
Ownership includes Phil and Tammy Murphy
The club’s ownership group remains one of the highest-profile in the NWSL. Founding owners include Phil Murphy, Tammy Murphy, and Steven Temares, while Carolyn Tisch Blodgett serves as lead owner and club governor.
The investor group also includes Eli Manning, Sue Bird, Kevin Durant, Carli Lloyd, Ed Nalbandian, Rich Kleiman, Pete Guelli, Steve Kokinos, Karen Bryant, Jennifer and Scott Mackesy, Kristin Bernert, and Bobby Cho.
While discussions about Etihad Park continue, Gotham FC has not officially announced plans to relocate its home matches from New Jersey.
Key Points
- Gotham FC is reportedly discussing a move from Harrison, New Jersey, to Etihad Park in Queens as early as 2027 or 2028.
- The club has increasingly emphasized New York branding while continuing a $35 million investment in its Whippany training facility.
- No official relocation agreement has been announced, and the team is expected to remain based in New Jersey for training regardless of where future home matches are played.
Related: Gotham FC, Phil Murphy, Harrison, Queens, National Women’s Soccer League