PATERSON, N.J. — The iconic New York Cosmos are making a comeback—and this time, their roots will run deep through Paterson. Joining USL League One in 2026, they will play home matches at the newly restored Hinchliffe Stadium, a national historic landmark overlooking the Great Falls.
Announced at a press conference on Thursday, the return of the Cosmos marks a new chapter not only for American soccer but for the city of Paterson, where the team’s leadership has committed to building a community-focused club that elevates local talent and creates economic opportunity.
Gov. Phil Murphy, who helped lead the announcement, called the moment “a renaissance for Hinchliffe Stadium and for Paterson.”
“We are not just bringing soccer back—we are restoring pride, creating jobs, and planting the seeds for the next generation of athletes and fans,” Murphy said. “Hinchliffe is more than a stadium. It’s a symbol of resilience and possibility.”
Mayor André Sayegh echoed that sentiment, celebrating the Cosmos’ return as a victory for the entire city.
“This is a historic day for Paterson,” said Sayegh. “This stadium once hosted Negro League legends like Larry Doby. Now it’s a home for future legends. This team will bring people together, and it will show that Paterson is a place where dreams can take flight.”
Hinchliffe Stadium, once a neglected site overrun with graffiti and trees growing through the stands, reopened in 2023 after a 25-year closure. It currently hosts a minor league baseball team and is fully operational for professional soccer, said Baye Adofo-Wilson, co-founder and owner of North Jersey Pro Soccer and co-developer of Hinchliffe Stadium.
“I want there to be 100 events here every year—soccer, baseball, concerts, community events—so we can bring more life and activity to Paterson,” Adofo-Wilson said in a post-event interview.
Erik Stover, co-founder and CEO of North Jersey Pro Soccer, said the team will prioritize community integration and youth development over star-studded signings.
“We really want to bring a European or South American feel to a proper club—one that’s giving back to the community every day,” Stover said. “It’s not just about the players. It’s about creating job opportunities, building culture, and giving kids in North Jersey a path forward.”
That focus on youth was echoed by Giuseppe Rossi, a Clifton native and former Italian international who will serve as the team’s Director of Soccer.
“To come back and build something for this community is special,” said Rossi. “I want to create a system where kids who love the game can see a vision—see a path—and pursue their dreams.”
While no players or coaches have been officially signed, Stover and Rossi stressed that the Cosmos aim to develop talent locally and reduce barriers that have long plagued underserved communities in U.S. soccer.
“The real magic will be the players we develop here,” Rossi said.
Investor Sapna Shah added that a women’s team is also on the horizon. “I particularly invest in women’s and mixed-gender sports,” she said. “The future women’s team is something I’m incredibly excited about.”
For longtime fans, the return of the Cosmos is emotional. Supporters at the press conference recounted memories of Pelé and Beckenbauer, and asked how the legacy of the club will continue in this new era. Stover emphasized that this iteration is grounded in sustainability and purpose.
“This time, we have the foundation,” he said. “We have the stadium. We have the community. Now, we build.”
The 2026 season kicks off in March. In the meantime, team leaders said fans can expect increased activity, public appearances, and community events in the months ahead.
“This is just the beginning,” said Adofo-Wilson. “From this point forward, you’re going to see the Cosmos come to life—in Paterson.”