The 2021 New York City FC season marked the club's seventh in Major League Soccer, with home games split between Yankee Stadium and Red Bull Arena due to scheduling conflicts. The team achieved a historic milestone by winning its first-ever MLS Cup title, defeating the Portland Timbers in a penalty shootout (2-4) after a 1-1 draw that went to extra time. In addition to the league championship, NYCFC made their Leagues Cup debut, advancing to the quarter-finals before losing to UNAM on penalties. The U.S. Open Cup was cancelled for 2021, announced on July 20, with the tournament set to resume in 2022. This triumphant season cemented the club's status as a top contender in American soccer.