Sports Illustrated takes over New York Red Bulls stadium naming rights for 13 years

In the United States, Sports Illustrated has embarked on an innovative venture by partnering with Major League Soccer's New York Red Bulls to secure naming rights for the team's stadium. This partnership marks a significant milestone, as it is the first time in Sports Illustrated's 70-year history that the brand will have a stadium named after it. The deal, which will span 13 years starting from the 2025 season, will see the Red Bulls' 25,000-seat venue rebranded as 'Sports Illustrated Stadium.' The collaboration will also enhance the ticketing experience, with Sports Illustrated Tickets becoming the official ticketing partner of the club. By employing the 'Box Office' blockchain event ticketing platform starting in the 2026 season, the stadium will be the first major sports venue to fully integrate blockchain-based ticketing for all events. This revolutionary approach aims to improve fan interaction, offering dynamic digital assets that provide unique benefits and customized experiences. Additionally, the partnership seeks to expand the stadium's use beyond soccer, as the Red Bulls plan to bring back concerts and other entertainment events, creating a multipurpose venue that can cater to a broader community audience. Sports Illustrated Tickets CEO David Lane expressed optimism about this partnership, highlighting the potential of combining the iconic histories of both brands and aiming for a groundbreaking fan experience. Red Bulls' team president, Marc de Grandpré, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of finding a partner that shares the same values and belief in enhancing the fan experience. With the anticipation of upcoming events and concerts, including planned performances by Rufus del Sol, the partnership is poised to transform the stadium into a fully integrated hub for fans that goes beyond the realm of sports, building a unique cultural space in the New York area.