Pitbull to Name FIU Football Stadium for $6M

Florida International University (FIU) is set to rename its football stadium to Pitbull Stadium following a proposed five-year naming rights deal. The FIU board of trustees is expected to approve the agreement, which will provide the university with $1.2 million annually. This decision highlights the growing trend of universities partnering with celebrities to enhance their brand and financial resources. The stadium, which has been known as Riccardo Silva Stadium since April 2017, will undergo the name change to honor the Miami-born rapper, Pitbull, who is affectionately known as "Mr. 305," a nod to the local area code. Pitbull is a prominent figure in the Miami community, frequently attending sporting events and recently performing at the WNBA All-Star Game. In addition to the name change, EA Sports is reportedly collaborating with FIU to update the recently released "College Football 25" video game to reflect the new stadium name. This partnership underscores the intersection of sports, entertainment, and technology, as video games continue to play a significant role in promoting college athletics. FIU's football team has been playing at the 20,000-seat venue since its opening in 1995. As the Panthers prepare for the upcoming season under head coach Mike MacIntyre, the renaming of the stadium marks a new chapter in the university's athletic history, further solidifying its connection to the vibrant culture of Miami. The Panthers will kick off their 2024 season against Indiana on August 31.