New York City FC will play a series of matches at Citi Field during the 2020 MLS season, with four games to be staged at the home of MLB’s New York Mets.
According to a press release issued by NYCFC Tuesday, the shift of select regular-season matches eliminates four midweek games in favor of weekend contests. Yankee Stadium will continue to be the club’s primary home in 2020, but NYCFC is not unfamiliar to Citi Field, as it has served as an alternate venue on two previous occasions.
Fan Fest-style activities, including block parties and pep rallies with live entertainment for all ages, will be held prior to all NYCFC matches at Citi Field. The matches will take place on the following dates:
- Sunday, April 26
- Saturday, July 25
- Saturday, August 8
- Saturday, September 26
“We are committed to delivering the best fan experience to our dedicated and passionate supporters and we have heard from them that midweek games are less convenient than weekend matchups,” New York City FC CEO Brad Sims said in a press statement. “Additionally, we believe that reducing the number of occasions where we play three games in eight days will be a great competitive benefit for our players. While Yankee Stadium remains our home, Citi Field has emerged as an incredible alternative venue for us and moving four dates from midweek to weekends is the best option for our fans and players alike.
“The atmosphere created by our fans at Citi Field has been really special recreating the home field advantage we enjoy at Yankee Stadium,” Sims added. “We hope this more balanced schedule will provide further flexibility and value for our fans and we are excited to play more games in front of our passionate and loyal fanbase in Queens.”
“Moving these fixtures to Citi Field will create a more balanced schedule which allows our team additional recovery time and preparation days ahead of key league matchups,” Sporting Director David Lee said in a press statement. “I know our players have greatly enjoyed the experience and atmosphere created by our fans at Citi Field in the past and we’re looking forward to playing there in the 2020 season.”
The full 2020 MLS schedule will be announced in the coming days.