Gotham FC is set to make history in Queens on July 15 when they host the Washington Spirit at Citi Field. The reigning National Women’s Soccer League champions have dubbed the match the “Queen City Classic,” which will be broadcast on ESPN. This exciting encounter kicks off at 8 p.m. ET and is proudly sponsored by CarMax.
Citi Field, the home of Major League Baseball’s New York Mets and Major League Soccer’s New York City FC, will be the backdrop for this high-stakes showdown. Currently, Gotham FC plays its home games at Red Bull Arena, sharing the facility with MLS’s New York Red Bulls.
Ryan Dillon, Gotham’s Chief Business Officer, expressed enthusiasm for what this summer holds for soccer in the region, emphasizing the importance of showcasing women’s sports and the talent at Gotham FC during a globally focused event in New York. He remarked on the transformative nature of this summer for the sport.
Washington Spirit CEO Kim Stone echoed this sentiment, asserting that the fixture between Washington and Gotham deserves a prominent stage. She highlighted the electric nature of the rivalry, acknowledging that their passionate fanbase intensifies the atmosphere and makes this match one not to be missed, especially with the World Cup final just around the corner.
Adding to the excitement, Sarah Jones Simmer, Chief Operating Officer of the NWSL, remarked on the significance of the Queens Classic at Citi Field. She conveyed that combining the reigning champions with a fierce rival like the Washington Spirit on such an iconic stage underscores the remarkable growth and attention surrounding the league this summer.
Katie Haas, Executive Vice President of Ballpark Operations for the New York Mets, expressed the organization’s excitement about hosting women’s soccer at Citi Field. She stated that their team takes pride in providing a prestigious venue for remarkable athletes, reflecting their talent and competitive spirit.
This pivotal encounter will reignite the rivalry that saw Gotham triumph in the 2025 NWSL Championship, thanks to a decisive goal from standout Rose Lavelle. Fans can also look forward to another clash between the two teams on October 17 at Audi Field, marking their last meeting of the 2026 regular season.
