New York Cosmos: The Most Successful North American Soccer League Team in History

The Cosmos ruled the NASL in two different eras

During the history of the North American soccer, one club stands out above all the numerous teams that came and went. Although they went on hiatus in 2020, the New York Cosmos name continues to be famous thanks to their glory years in the 1970s.   

Born out of the fervour and ambition of the North American Soccer League (NASL) in the 1970s and 1980s, the Cosmos not only redefined American soccer but also became the most successful team in NASL history. They burned brightly before finally burning out. The team that re-emerged in the 2010s also burned brightly but with New York City FC given a place in Major League Soccer, the club’s future was put in doubt.   

The New York Cosmos were founded in 1970 and quickly became a symbol of soccer's potential in the United States. What set the Cosmos apart from other NASL franchises was their ability to attract international soccer legends. Steve Ross and Clive Toye brought professional soccer to the New York area. The team was originally based in the Bronx before moving to Giants Stadium in New Jersey.  

In 1975, they made a groundbreaking move by signing Pelé, the Brazilian football icon, who brought a touch of footballing royalty to the American game. Pelé’s 1975 contract saw him earn $4.75 million over the course of three years. It was an unprecedented amount of money for the time.   

While Pelé was undoubtedly the most famous signing, the Cosmos also attracted other global stars, including Franz Beckenbauer, Carlos Alberto, and Giorgio Chinaglia. These signings transformed the team into a formidable force, both on and off the field.  

During their NASL years, the Cosmos dominated the league, winning the Soccer Bowl five times, in 1972, 1977, 1978, 1980, and 1982. Their style of play was characterized by flair and creativity, and earned them a devoted fan base for a brief time.  

Off the pitch, the Cosmos were pioneers in marketing and branding, bringing a sense of glamour and showmanship to American soccer. They played their home matches at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, regularly filling the 77,000-seat venue with supporters. The Cosmos' matches became events, attracting celebrities and dignitaries to witness the spectacle. Even Henry Kissinger was a regular at games.  

Although the NASL folded in 1984, the Cosmos left a mark on American soccer. However, it would take FIFA granting the U.S. the 1994 World Cup for a professional league to return to the country.  

The Cosmos were reborn in 2010 after more than decades on hiatus. They competed in a new version of the NASL. While they couldn't replicate the same level of success as their predecessors, the return of the Cosmos brought back memories of their glory days. Umbro launched a new line of Cosmos apparel, and Pelé even got involved once more.  

Unfortunately, MLS has tried to wipe out any memory of the Cosmos. Generations of American soccer fans have no clue about the once-ground-breaking franchise. In 2006, a documentary on the Cosmos was released worldwide. Once in a Lifetime: The Extraordinary Story of the New York Cosmos tells the story of the famous soccer club. It can be watched on YouTube here.