Instead of one game, Gotham FC should move to Queens in the future | OneFootball

Back on Tuesday, NJ/NY Gotham FC revealed that their home game against the Washington Spirit will take place at Citi Field in Queens. This will be a special one-night only game on Wednesday, July 15, and the fixture is known as the Queens Classic. This was great news to hear since the Bats initially did not have a location for this NWSL Championship rematch. Sports Illustrated Stadium was unavailable, likely due to the FIFA World Cup.

The game itself should be incredible, especially since Gotham FC is not forced to play a big game in a smaller venue, and those who live closer to Queens are more likely to attend. But truth be told, any game actually within the Big Apple is more enticing to attend. Not everyone will be happy based on the location of the games, for there are fans all over. But when all is said and done, the Bats might want to consider something slightly controversial.

Gotham FC should consider moving full-time to New York City, specifically Queens, once New York City FC's new stadium, Etihad Park, opens up. That will not be until the summer of 2027, and the Bats could consider this for the 2028 season or sooner. Of course, a deal would have to be made with the Major League Soccer side, but why not? It could economically help both teams.

Gotham FC should move to Queens

Now, Gotham can still be NJ/NY Gotham FC, for when one thinks about it, the city represents the tri-state area, and New Jersey is a part of that. A name change is not needed. In addition, nothing would change about the club, other than the home stadium.

The reason the Bats should move is due to the fact that the stadium will be in the city. The location is more ideal when it comes to a marketing perspective, and Etihad Park will be in a location with a higher population compared to Sports Illustrated Stadium. Yes, the New Jersey home is near the city, but it is not in the city.

Moreover, when one looks at the New York Red Bulls and Gotham FC, attendance levels are nowhere near where they should be. The Bats have seen an increase over the last few years, but with stars like Rose Lavelle, Jaadyn Shaw, and Emily Sonnett, attendance should easily be over 10,000 or more per game.

It is difficult to pinpoint where fans are across the map of the area, but clearly, there are many all over in multiple states. Maybe the levels are lower than they can be based on location; a move to Queens could lead to a drastic increase. It must be said, though, that a location change would not be ideal for every supporter. A trip to Sports Illustrated Stadium is undoubtedly easier for some, whereas the future Etihad Park would be for others.

It is the same for NYCFC fans. Some benefited from the majority of matches being at Yankee Stadium, while for others, Citi Field is better. But one thing is for sure, and that a move to Queens would see the Bats in a better area based on the Willets Point project, and what the area will be like in the next few years.

And again, playing in the Big Apple is different. It would provide a stronger marketing strategy and an opportunity to gain new fans. Look at the Queens Classic and how it is big news in the NWSL. Plus, it would be better for attracting players from around the world. Playing and living in New York City is more attractive than New Jersey, despite the fact that the state is fantastic. But for those in their 20s and 30s who want to play on a big NWSL team, the appeal would increase significantly.

Gotham could also opt to split the games between Sports Illustrated Stadium and Etihad Park. The club could study whether the move would be beneficial, and likely, it would. Of course, it would not be great for some fans, but the pros outweigh the cons.

Notably, Gotham FC and the players might be completely happy in New Jersey. They might not want to move anytime soon. However, the club should at least consider this.