Icahn Stadium, a versatile complex nestled on Randall’s Island in Manhattan, stands on the historic grounds of the former Downing Stadium, built way back in 1936. After over half a century of use, the original stadium was ripe for a facelift. The extensive renovation wrapped up in 2005, ushering in the grand opening of Icahn Stadium.
The new stadium bears the name of American businessman Carl Icahn, who generously donated $10 million towards its construction. Equipped with a World Athletics-certified track, the stadium frequently hosts international, national, and regional track and field competitions. Let’s dive into the fascinating journey of this iconic New York venue, exploring its past and present on new-york-future.
From Downing Stadium to Icahn Stadium
Icahn Stadium was built to replace the old 22,000-seat Downing Stadium, which originally opened in 1936 as part of a major urban development project. Downing Stadium’s inauguration was a landmark event, famously hosting the U.S. Olympic Trials where the legendary American athlete Jesse Owens qualified for two events, drawing over 15,000 spectators.
Initially known as Triborough Stadium, the venue was later renamed Randall’s Island Stadium. In 1955, it received its final moniker, Downing Stadium, in honor of John J. Downing, then director of the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation. Throughout its operation, Downing Stadium carved out its place in sports history with several notable events:
- In 1939, it hosted the first-ever televised American football game between Fordham and Waynesburg.
- In 1964, it was the site of the women’s Olympic Trials.
- In 1991, it proudly hosted the USA Track & Field Championships.
Beyond sports, portions of the beloved children’s show Sesame Street were filmed here, featuring segments that highlighted the story of The Flashettes, a women’s track and field team.
Downing Stadium also served as the home field for the New York Cosmos soccer team and hosted various sporting events and open-air concerts. Overall, the stadium was well-equipped and served the city for nearly 70 years. Interestingly, the lighting system from the old stadium was repurposed for the new one after the reconstruction.
What’s the Story with Icahn Stadium?
The decision to demolish Downing Stadium was made in the early 21st century and carried out in 2002. Instead of renovating, the choice was made to completely tear it down and build a brand-new stadium to maximize the site’s potential.
The new Icahn venue, featuring a FIFA-certified soccer field, opened its doors in 2005. It boasts a state-of-the-art track and field complex with a running track certified by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) USA—one of only five such tracks in existence. The stadium features a cantilevered roof that protects a portion of the seating from the elements, and a pair of towering light masts illuminate the field for nighttime events. The soccer field itself is equipped with its own scoreboard, fencing, lighting, and spectator stands.
Management of Icahn Stadium falls under the Randall’s Island Park Alliance, which serves the residents of New York City. The Alliance organizes various events for children on Randall’s Island, runs the Jesse Owens Track Club, and offers dance programs and summer camps.
Established in 1992, the Alliance is a public-private partnership dedicated to developing the island’s potential. It focuses on building sports and recreational facilities, restoring the local natural environment and parklands, and creating community programs for children.
Notably, one of the Alliance’s key initiatives is organizing youth sports programs. Each year, they bring over 14,000 children from underserved public schools in Harlem and the South Bronx to the island’s sports venues.
Therefore, the construction of Icahn Stadium was a logical step for the Alliance. The site, which once housed Downing Stadium, not only retained its significance but also received a new lease on life.
Icahn Stadium’s Facilities
Designed as a Class 1 track and field center, Icahn Stadium is fully equipped to host Olympic-level competitions. It features covered seating for 5,000 spectators, an additional 5,000 open-air seats, and auxiliary facilities. The complex also includes four soccer fields, walking paths, lighting, and comprehensive utilities.
The venue is illuminated by two 160-foot light towers, which also support the roof structure. Beneath the covered seating, the first floor houses spectator areas and essential support rooms, including locker rooms, training facilities, and storage. Wide staircases and elevators provide spectator access to the upper-level concourse, which boasts restrooms, food and beverage concessions, and pathways leading to seating areas with panoramic views of Manhattan. A press box is located on the highest level.
Track & Field, Lacrosse, Soccer, and Beyond
Since its opening, Icahn Stadium has welcomed over 200,000 athletes and spectators for a wide array of sporting events. The number of planned competitions continues to grow annually, boosting the stadium’s popularity.
In 2005, it hosted the inaugural Reebok Grand Prix. In 2008, Jamaican sprint sensation Usain Bolt set a new 100m world record on Icahn Stadium’s track with a blistering time of 9.72 seconds, 0.02 seconds faster than Asafa Powell’s previous record.
Every summer, the stadium hosts the Adidas Grand Prix Diamond League, where top runners from around the globe compete. This competition draws Olympic and world champions, giving spectators the chance to witness sports stars and cheer them on.
For instance, in 2012, Kenyan runner David Rudisha set an 800m record on U.S. soil at Icahn Stadium with a time of 1:41.74. Notably, Icahn Stadium also served as a training center for the 2012 Summer Olympics. Its adherence to all necessary requirements makes it a strong candidate for future use in this capacity.
In 2012, the New York Lizards lacrosse team announced they would play two games at Icahn Stadium the following season. These events took place on June 6 and 13, 2013.
The next year, the New York Cosmos soccer team announced that the final of the annual Cosmos Copa NYC tournament would be held at Icahn Stadium. While they had played many matches on Randall’s Island before, those were at other venues. Due to a packed schedule of planned sporting events, the final was rescheduled that year. However, Icahn Stadium was used during the group stage of the Cosmos Copa in 2014.
In 2023, New York City FC contributed $3 million for the installation of a new soccer field at Icahn Stadium. Starting in 2024, the club’s reserve team, New York City FC II, began playing there.
The annual charity soccer match was also held at the stadium that same year. Additionally, the stadium is slated to host rugby matches and events, further expanding its diverse functionality and appeal.
