Football, better known as ‘soccer’ in the United States, is a sport that has seduced millions of fans across the country. New York, a vibrant and diverse metropolis, is at the centre of this excitement, offering a dynamic and rapidly expanding football scene. With the arrival of international stars such as Thierry Henry in the past and more recent talents such as Léo Messi in MLS, football in the United States has never been so captivating and accessible.
New York City Football Club and New York Red Bulls are the pride of the city, each with a dedicated fan base and rich history. These teams not only play a key role in the MLS championship but are also vehicles for New York’s sporting culture, attracting spectators from all walks of life to experience adrenalin-fuelled matches.
Imagine the boundless energy of a football match in New York, the chants of the fans echoing in the stadiums, the enthusiasm of the crowds and the captivating spectacle on the pitch. Attending such an event is more than just watching a match, it’s an immersive experience that captures the very essence of New York’s sporting spirit.
We’re offering you the unique opportunity to be part of this adventure. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to the world of football, attending a football match in New York is an unforgettable experience you won’t want to miss. Prepare to be swept up in an electrifying atmosphere where sport meets spectacle, and where every match is a celebration of passion and perseverance.
MLS season calendar
Every year, Major League Soccer (MLS) offers a calendar packed with competitions and excitement. The season generally kicks off in March and runs until October, followed by the exciting playoffs that culminate in the MLS Cup in December. For fans wishing to attend a football match in New York, the calendar allows you to plan your experience perfectly.
The regular season from March to October
The regular season runs from March to October, with the teams competing in a series of matches that will determine their qualification for the play-offs. It’s an exciting time, when every game can significantly change the standings. The home matches of New York teams are ideal opportunities to experience top-level football in the electrifying atmosphere of the city.
Play-off series starting in November
November sees the start of the play-off phase, with the best teams in each conference facing off in knockout matches. The intensity ramps up a notch as the teams battle for a place in the final.
MLS Cup: the highlight of the season in December, when the league’s top two teams battle it out for the coveted title of MLS champion. It’s the perfect opportunity to see world-class football, where talent and strategy are pushed to the limit.
New York teams
New York is a football metropolis, home to two of the most competitive teams in MLS: New York City Football Club and the New York Red Bulls. Each team offers its fans a unique experience, from thrilling matches to iconic stadiums.
New York City Football Club
History
Founded in 2013, New York City Football Club (NYCFC) is one of the youngest clubs in MLS. Despite its short history, the club has quickly found its place in the hearts of New York fans and established itself as a serious contender in the league.
Awards
Since its inception, NYCFC has enjoyed several successful seasons, culminating in their first major title, the MLS Cup, won in 2021. The victory marked an important moment in the club’s history and underlined their rapid ascent among MLS’ elite.
Key players
Over the years, NYCFC has seen a number of high-profile players pull on its shirt, including international stars such as David Villa, Andrea Pirlo and, more recently, Taty Castellanos, whose performances have been crucial to the club’s success.
New York City FC calendar
NYCFC matches are played at Yankee Stadium and you can find the schedule below, but please note that the matches on 12 April against Philadelphia and on 4 and 17 May against Cincinnati and the New York Red Bulls will exceptionally be played at Citi Field and not at Yankee Stadium. It is possible that some games in October will also be played at Citi Field depending on the results of the New York Yankees team, but we will keep you informed.
Yankee Stadium
Located in the Bronx, Yankee Stadium serves as NYCFC’s home ground. It can accommodate around 30,000 fans, providing a vibrant and electrifying atmosphere on match days. To get there, fans can easily use public transport with multiple underground and bus options serving the stadium, ensuring easy access for all.
What are the best seats at Yankee Stadium?
When planning to attend a football match in New York at Yankee Stadium, choosing the best seats is crucial to optimising your experience. Unlike baseball games, stadium configurations for football are adjusted to provide optimal visibility of the playing field.
Sections 228 to 230 offer an uninterrupted view of all the action, located right in the middle of the pitch. These seats are highly recommended for those who want a complete perspective of the match, allowing you to follow the movements across the pitch without losing any detail.
For a closer experience of the players and the intense atmosphere, Sections 130 to 134 are ideal. Located behind the goal, these seats put you right at the heart of the excitement during attacks and attempts on goal, perfect for fans who want to feel every exciting moment.
Tip: for fans who like to be at the centre of the supporters’ atmosphere, Sections 235 to 238 are recommended. These sections are often occupied by the most passionate groups of NYCFC supporters, guaranteeing a vibrant and energetic atmosphere throughout the match.
By choosing one of these options, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience watching a football match in New York. Be sure to book your seats in advance to guarantee the best views at Yankee Stadium!
New York Red Bulls
History
The New York Red Bulls, originally founded as the New York/New Jersey MetroStars in 1995, are one of the founding teams of MLS. Their rebranding in 2006, following their acquisition by Red Bull, marked an exciting new chapter, strengthening their presence and impact in the league.
Awards
Although they have yet to win an MLS Cup, the Red Bulls have several conference titles to their name and have won the Supporters’ Shield on three occasions, in 2013, 2015 and 2018. These successes demonstrate their consistency and competitiveness at the highest level.
Key players
Over the years, the team has seen renowned players such as Thierry Henry, Bradley Wright-Phillips and Tim Cahill wear its colours. Today, talents such as Aaron Long and Daniel Royer are at the heart of the team’s dynamic, bringing their expertise and passion to the pitch.
New York Red Bulls calendar
The Red Bull Arena
Opened in 2010, the Red Bull Arena, located in Harrison, New Jersey, is specifically designed for football and is reputed to be one of the best facilities of its kind in North America. With a capacity of around 25,000, it offers a spectacular experience with a close, unobstructed view of the pitch from any seat. Its roof over the stands amplifies the chants and cheers of the fans, creating an electric atmosphere that is one of the most vibrant in MLS.
Access: Red Bull Arena is easily accessible by public transport, with train and bus options leading directly to the stadium. For those who prefer to drive, there are also plenty of parking options available.
Where are the best seats at the Red Bull Arena?
When attending a football match in New York at Red Bull Arena, choosing the best seat can greatly enhance your experience. This arena, specifically designed for football, offers several great seating options for fans.
Center Sections (108-111 and 125-127): located along the centerline of the field, these sections offer a panoramic and detailed view of the action throughout the field. Perfect for fans who want to understand the tactics of the game and see every key player move.
Sections behind the goals (101, 102, 132, 133): for those who prefer to be closer to the action at critical moments such as goals or important saves, these sections are ideal. They offer an immersive experience, putting you right at the heart of the excitement as the teams attack.
Tip: fans looking for a vibrant atmosphere and active support should consider Sections 101 and 102. These areas are often the liveliest, with local fans singing and cheering their team on throughout the match, providing an authentic experience of New York football culture.
By booking your seats in one of these recommended sections at Red Bull Arena, you can be sure to enjoy every football match in New York. Don’t forget to book early to get the best seats available!
