New York City FC is set to host its Pride Night match on Friday, June 28, against Orlando City SC at Yankee Stadium, presented by Nissan. The Club is partnering with Athlete Ally again for this year’s match, which marks the eighth consecutive year the Club has hosted a Pride Night match.
“New York City FC was founded on the commitment to champion equality and access to soccer for everyone, and our initiatives around Pride Month and our Pride Night match are key parts to living up to that commitment. We will continue to champion Pride year-round, celebrating the LGBTQI+ community while also raising awareness in the mission to end homophobia and transphobia in sports,” said Brad Sims, New York City FC CEO. “Soccer, and all sports, should be inclusive environments where everyone feels welcome all the time, and we will continue to do our part to make that a reality.”
Donation and Ticket Offer
For every goal scored and assist recorded in June, New York City FC has pledged to donate $150 to support Athlete Ally. New York City FC is also offering a ticket bundle offer that includes the Club’s Pride scarf, with a portion of proceeds also going to Athlete Ally.
Retail and Pre-Match Activations
New York City FC teamed up with Brooklyn-based photographer Myles Loftin for this year’s Pride scarf, with the design showcasing Myles’ photography. Myles Loftin is a freelance photographer based in Brooklyn whose work uses honest and intimate portraiture to connect his audiences with individuals from a range of diverse backgrounds. The scarf will be available to purchase at Yankee Stadium and a portion of proceeds from sales will benefit Athlete Ally.
“I used to play soccer in middle school and a bit in high school so it's cool to work on something like this. There isn't a whole lot of queer representation in the sports world, and opportunities like this are important for people like me to see,” said Myles Loftin.
New York City FC players will also wear this year’s edition of the pre-match Pride Top. Designed by Brazilian drag queen and singer Pabllo Vittar, the Pride Top sports a bold silver look with “Love Unites” on the front. On the neck tape, there's a Portuguese phrase translating into: without confidence there’s nothing.
Nissan, the presenting partner for the Club’s Pride Night match, will have a Nissan vehicle wrapped in New York City FC and Pride branding outside Gate 4. Nissan will also support the Club’s attendance in New York City’s Pride March on June 30 alongside front office staff and supporters.
Additionally, drag queen Jan Sport will return for this year’s Pride Night to perform the National Anthem prior to kickoff.
About Athlete Ally
Athlete Ally believes that everyone should have equal access, opportunity, and experience in sports — regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. Their mission is to end homophobia and transphobia in sports and to activate the athletic community to exercise their leadership to champion LGBTQI+ equality.
To learn more about Athlete Ally and how you can support their mission, visit athleteally.org.
