Gotham FC defeated the Washington Spirit 1-0 on July 15, 2026, at Citi Field in New York City, drawing a record crowd of 42,715 fans for a women’s sporting event in the city [1, 2, 3]. The only goal came in the 37th minute when Rose Lavelle scored [1, 2, 3].
Sam Kerr made her return to Gotham FC as a substitute in the 64th minute, adding excitement for the home crowd. NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman called it “a full circle moment with Sam Kerr coming here and being able to experience this on her first night” [1, 2].
Despite smoky conditions from wildfires in Ontario, the match drew the largest crowd ever for Gotham FC, shattering their previous attendance record of 15,560 set in 2024 [2]. The game was hosted at Citi Field, better known as the home of the MLB New York Mets [1, 2, 3].
Although the 42,715 attendance set a local record, the overall NWSL attendance record remains 63,000 at the Denver Summit vs Washington Spirit game held in March 2026 [2]. Gotham FC currently play at Sports Illustrated Stadium, a suburban venue in New Jersey, but plans are set for a 2028 move to Etihad Park in Queens to improve accessibility and fan experience [1, 2, 3].
Commissioner Berman said, "We know that with investment, if you build it, they will come. And this is a proof point for that. My favourite thing about tonight is that it isn't transactional. It's not a one and done. This is the beginning of a new relationship for this team in Queens" [1].
Gotham FC's relocation to Etihad Park is scheduled for 2028, aiming to build on the momentum from this record-setting event in New York City [1, 2, 3].
