STADIUM TECHNOLOGY NEWS
Wicket to bring facial ticketing to Valero Alamo Bowl
Wicket will deploy its facial authentication ticketing technology at the Valero Alamo Bowl on Dec. 30, enabling fans who opt in to enter the Alamodome through dedicated facial-recognition entry lanes for faster, contact-free access. The roll-out follows successful pilot programs at other venues and reflects growing adoption of biometric solutions to streamline event entry and enhance the fan experience. Read more here.
T-Mobile Arena launches driverless taxi pilot
T-Mobile Arena is partnering with autonomous mobility provider Waymo to introduce a driverless taxi service for guests, aiming to improve transportation access and reduce traffic around the Las Vegas venue. It will operate on event days and highlights broader interest in integrating automated transit solutions into stadium and entertainment district infrastructure. Read more here.
STADIUM PROJECT NEWS
$8.1 billion casino and entertainment complex at Citi Field gets green light
The New York State Gaming Commission has approved plans for an $8.1 billion integrated casino, hotel, and entertainment district project adjacent to Citi Field in Queens, clearing a key regulatory hurdle after years of planning and community review. The Metropolitan Park development — led by New York Mets owner Steve Cohen and Hard Rock International — aims to transform 50 acres of parking lots into a year-round mixed-use destination with gaming, hospitality, and public amenities. Read more here.
Kansas City riverfront development gets name and World Cup momentum
Kansas City’s $1 billion, 23-acre mixed-use riverfront development adjacent to CPKC Stadium has been officially named Current Landing as the first phase is on track to open in spring 2026 ahead of the FIFA Men’s World Cup. The World Cup timing is expected to accelerate activation of the site’s two-acre central plaza for fan engagement and drive increased momentum for the project’s subsequent phases. Read more here.
Whitecaps FC and City of Vancouver advance new stadium talks at Hastings Park
Vancouver Whitecaps FC and the City of Vancouver have signed a memorandum of understanding to enter exclusive negotiations through 2026 for a potential new stadium and entertainment district at Hastings Park, aiming to secure a modern home for the MLS club and boost local tourism and economic activity. Read more here.
Saudi Arabia reassesses scope of 2034 World Cup stadium program
Saudi Arabia is reviewing its proposed stadium plans for the 2034 FIFA World Cup amid cost pressures and construction timelines that are prompting reassessments of designs, delivery schedules, and the overall venue count. Reports indicate some projects could be delayed, redesigned, or removed as officials balance tournament requirements with broader Vision 2030 priorities. Read more here.
STADIUM BUSINESS NEWS
Chicago Bears explore Indiana options as Illinois stadium talks stall
The Chicago Bears are evaluating potential stadium sites in Northwest Indiana as negotiations with Illinois over taxes, infrastructure, and public funding remain at an impasse. Team executives say expanding the search keeps long-term options open for a new venue, underscoring how regional competition and government support continue to shape major league stadium decisions. Read more here.
NYCFC secures Paze as first Founding Partner of Etihad Park
New York City FC has entered a multi-year partnership with Early Warning Services’ Paze digital wallet and online checkout solution, naming it the first Founding Partner of the club’s future Etihad Park and its official online payment platform. The deal includes branding throughout the venue and naming rights for the new Paze City Square and begins in 2026 as the 25,000-seat stadium project continues toward its planned 2027 opening. Read more here.
