STADIUM TECHNOLOGY NEWS
Verizon builds 100G optical ring to power MSE’s centralized broadcast operations
Monumental Sports & Entertainment has completed a new 100G optical network backbone connecting Capital One Arena, two practice facilities, and its corporate/broadcast hub. The Verizon-built ring will anchor MSE’s move toward centralized and remote production models for the Capitals, Wizards, Mystics, and Go-Go starting in 2025–26. Read more here.
Crushers’ Stadium renaming to ForeFront Field comes with Cisco smart-stadium upgrades
The Frontier League’s Lake Erie Crushers have entered a multiyear partnership with ForeFront Technology that not only renames their venue to ForeFront Field but also introduces a next-generation Cisco smart-stadium ecosystem, which will include enhanced fan Wi-Fi and a full technology platform designed for future enhancements. The deal emphasizes fan experience technology, community engagement, and digital infrastructure that aligns brand and venue in one integrated offering. Read more here.
San Francisco 49ers & Avery Dennison – fan personalization tech
The San Francisco 49ers have renewed their partnership with Avery Dennison to bring the team store at Levi’s Stadium upgraded customization stations, and digital-enabled merchandise experiences. The deal expands the technology footprint into Mexico and the UAE, positioning the 49ers’ retail arm as a hub for tech-driven fan engagement. Read more here.
STADIUM PROJECT NEWS
Commanders tap HKS to lead design of new $3.7B RFK Stadium
The Washington Commanders have selected HKS – the firm behind SoFi Stadium, AT&T Stadium, and U.S. Bank Stadium – as lead architect for their new 65,000-seat venue on the RFK Stadium site, slated to open in 2030. The project, approved by the D.C. Council and backed by $2.7 billion in team funding, aims to deliver a modern, roofed stadium that blends Washington’s character with a next-generation fan experience. Read more here.
Monumental launches interactive site showcasing plans for new high-tech downtown D.C. arena
Monumental Sports & Entertainment has launched DistrictMomentum.com, an interactive platform showcasing the multi-year transformation of its next-generation Washington, D.C. arena. The site offers new renderings, immersive flythroughs, and previews of premium spaces and technology upgrades planned through 2027, providing fans with a centralized view of the venue’s evolving design and experience enhancements. Read more here.
Rays to return to Tropicana Field in 2026 as roof repairs and upgrades near completion
The Tampa Bay Rays will move back into Tropicana Field for the 2026 season after extensive repairs to the ballpark’s fiberglass roof and interior damage from Hurricane Milton. The reopening comes with a slate of upgrades, including a larger main videoboard, new foul-pole displays, a refreshed sound system, and renovated suites—paired with a notable ticket-price rollback for most seats. Read more here.
Missouri Governor suggests retractable roof if Chiefs pursue Arrowhead renovation
Missouri Governor Mike Parson said he would support adding a retractable roof or a major cover to Arrowhead Stadium if the Kansas City Chiefs choose to renovate the venue rather than build a new one, calling the idea a way to keep top-tier events in the state. The comments come as the team weighs long-term stadium options following the failed Jackson County funding vote and ongoing discussions about location, scope, and project feasibility. Read more here.
STADIUM BUSINESS NEWS
FIFA adds DoorDash as new sponsor for 2026 World Cup
FIFA has reportedly signed DoorDash to a sponsorship agreement for the 2026 World Cup, adding another major U.S. brand to its growing commercial portfolio for the expanded tournament. The deal is expected to fall in the $80–100 million range, contributing to FIFA’s projected $1.8 billion in marketing revenue for the event. Read more here.
Aviva extends naming Rights at Dublin’s stadium to 2030
Insurance group Aviva Ireland has extended its naming rights deal for the 51,000-seat Aviva Stadium in Dublin – home to Irish rugby and football – to 2030, reinforcing a long-standing sponsorship link and continuing to leverage venue branding in the Irish market. The reported value of the renewal is approximately US$30 million, reinforcing Aviva’s role in supporting both professional teams and national-level sport in Ireland. Read more here.
