New York Cosmos Return in 2026: A New Chapter with Brazilian Roots | OneFootball

One of the most iconic clubs in American soccer history, the New York Cosmos, is officially back.

The team, famously home to Pelé between 1975 and 1977, will join USL League One starting in the 2026 season. Their new home ground will be Hinchliffe Stadium in Paterson, New Jersey—but the vision goes beyond the pitch.

New York Cosmos: A Community-First Rebuild

Unlike past iterations that aimed to revive NASL glitz with global stars and celebrity crowds, the new Cosmos are built on grassroots values: youth development, school partnerships, and reestablishing ties with the region's immigrant communities—especially Latin American ones.

The revival is led by Erik Stover, former CEO of the club in the 2010s, now part of the new ownership group. His focus? Honor the Cosmos legacy while creating a sustainable, modern identity in tune with today’s U.S. soccer ecosystem.

A Rival to MLS

USL is pushing hard to compete with MLS, announcing promotion and relegation, in addition to reviving several franchises that went belly up in the past. The Cosmos were a sure shot, and even received praised from President Donald Trump during an interview with DAZN during the Club World Cup finals. Familiar with the area, Trump remembered the heydays of Pelé and the Cosmos, who came to reshape how Americans saw soccer in the country.

For Brazilian Fans, an Everlasting Bond with Pelé

The name “Cosmos” holds special meaning in Brazil, thanks to Pelé. The King of Football chose the club as his final stop, playing a pivotal role in growing the sport’s appeal in the U.S.

New York Cosmos Raul Gonzalez with Pelé em 2015 (Cosmos / X)

His presence in New York—straddling media fame and cultural diplomacy—remains legendary. For Brazilians following lower-division soccer in the U.S., this is a front-row seat to a legacy reborn: one rooted in history, but oriented toward the future.