NJ/NY Gotham FC is set to play under the NWSL's new footwear sponsorship framework, which limits brand visibility to those who sign deals with the league.

What happened?

The new framework takes effect with Friday's Challenge Cup between defending NWSL champion Gotham FC and 2025 NWSL Shield winner Kansas City Current in Columbus, Ohio. Players whose cleat sponsors have not opted into the program will be required to cover their cleat branding during the match.

Why it matters for NJ/NY Gotham FC

The league's initiative formalizes a commercial model already used across major U.S. professional leagues, where brands pay for the right to have their products visible during games and broadcasts. Adidas and Puma, the two companies with the largest share of non-Nike athletes in the NWSL, are the first brands to opt into the program.

What comes next?

The NWSL hopes more players, including those who currently lack individual sponsorship agreements, will receive financial support from participating brands. | Category | Stat | | --- | --- | | League Standing | 8th in NWSL Women, 36 pts, 9W-9D-8L from 26 games | | Goals this season | 35 scored, 25 conceded (+10 goal difference) | | Title race | 29 points behind leaders Kansas City W | As of June 27, 2026, NJ/NY Gotham FC is focused on adapting to the new footwear rules while maintaining their competitive edge in the league.