The New York City FC history reflects the rise of a dynamic New York City FC soccer team that has quickly become a major MLS contender. Founded in 2013, the club represents New York’s spirit of passion and pride. Alongside their growing fanbase, the New York City FC mascot adds excitement and energy to every matchday.
Established
2013
City
New York
League History
2015 – Present / Major League Soccer
Team History
2015 – Present / New York City FC
Nickname
New York City FC – New York City FC history is one of the most exciting stories in Major League Soccer, and their nickname has an interesting backstory. The team was founded in 2013 by Manchester City Football Club, based in England. As part of their partnership with NYCFC, they gave them a nickname unique to the city: “The Pigeons.”
New York City FC Origin
The name pays homage to New York's long-standing relationship with its iconic bird species – pigeons have been around for centuries and are even featured on some of the city’s oldest postcards! While many people may think it's strange for a professional soccer team to be named after birds, it makes perfect sense when you consider how important these animals are both culturally and symbolically within New York City. Not only do they represent freedom (as seen through movies like Home Alone 2), but also loyalty - something that any sports fan can appreciate!
In addition to being an homage to one of NYC’s beloved creatures, “The Pigeons" also serves as a reminder about what makes this club so unique – its strong connection with Manchester City Football Club across international waters! It allows fans from both sides to cheer together and unite under one common goal: winning championships at all levels possible throughout MLS play each season.
So next time you hear someone referring to your favorite MLS side as "the Pigeons," remember why this particular moniker was chosen - there's no better way than connecting two great cities through sport while honoring such beautiful feathered friends!
Championship
MLS Cups 1
2021
Stadium
2015 - Present / Yankee Stadium
Owner
2013 - Present / City Football Group (majority) and Yankee Global Enterprises (minority)
- 2014
- 2015
- 2016
- 2020
- 2021
- 2023
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New York City FC signs its first player – David Villa
In 2014: New York City FC signs its first player, Spanish international forward David Villa, on June 2, 2014. Villa joins from Atlético Madrid and becomes the club’s first captain and designated player. The club also signs its first head coach, Jason Kreis, on December 11, 2014. Kreis joins from Real Salt Lake, where he won the MLS Cup in ... -
New York City FC Team Formation
MLS had an interest in placing a second team in the New York area as early as 2006 when the MetroStars’ exclusive territorial rights reverted to the league as a condition of the club’s sale to Red Bull GmbH. By the following year, the league had held talks with several groups, including New York Mets owner Fred Wilpon and his ... -
New York City FC finishes second in the Eastern Conference
In 2016: New York City FC finishes second in the Eastern Conference and qualifies for the playoffs for the first time. The club also participates in the U.S. Open Cup, reaching the fourth round before losing to New York Cosmos 1–0. The club also signs several notable players, such as Jack Harrison, an English international winger who joined from Wake ... -
New York City FC debut in the CONCACAF Champions League
New York City began the 2020 season with their debut in the CONCACAF Champions League and advanced to the quarter finals after defeating Costa Rican outfit San Carlos 6–3 over two legs. -
Shootout Wins it for The City
MLS Cup 2021 was the 26th edition of the MLS Cup, the championship match of Major League Soccer (MLS) at the conclusion of the 2021 MLS Cup Playoffs. The match was played on December 11, 2021, at Providence Park in Portland, Oregon, United States. It was contested by hosts Portland Timbers and New York City FC to determine the champion ... -
New York City FC starts the 2023 season with a 3–0 win
In 2023: New York City FC starts the season with a 3–0 win over Charlotte FC at Bank of America Stadium.
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
New York City FC History
The New York City FC history began in 2013 when the club was founded as a professional New York City FC soccer team to represent the heart of the Big Apple in Major League Soccer (MLS). It became the first MLS franchise based in New York City, co-owned by the City Football Group and the New York Yankees. The team officially joined MLS in 2015, marking the start of a new era for soccer in the city.
In their debut season, New York City FC soccer team impressed fans with competitive performances and passionate home support at Yankee Stadium. Over the years, the club has attracted international stars like David Villa, Andrea Pirlo, and Frank Lampard—players who brought global attention to both the team and the New York City FC mascot, which symbolizes the energy and spirit of New York.
During the 2019 MLS season, New York City FC achieved one of its biggest milestones by winning the Supporters’ Shield, finishing with the best regular-season record. Their consistent playoff appearances highlighted their rapid rise in American soccer. The team made back-to-back Eastern Conference Finals in 2017 and 2018, proving its strong foundation and ambition to become an MLS powerhouse.
New York Football Achievements
The New York City FC history took a triumphant turn in 2021 when they captured their first-ever MLS Cup title by defeating the Portland Timbers in a dramatic penalty shootout. This victory cemented their status as one of the most successful expansion clubs in MLS history. Since then, the New York City FC soccer team has continued to develop talented players and expand its fanbase across the globe.
Today, the New York City FC mascot and supporters stand as symbols of pride, uniting fans across the five boroughs. With a growing legacy and a competitive New York City FC record, the club continues to chase more championships, representing the vibrant spirit of New York City both on and off the field.
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Retired Number
*Blue is this team’s history