FedEx Field will have a new name soon. The shipping company announced Wednesday it’s pulling out of its naming rights deal for the Washington Commanders’ stadium in Landover, Maryland.
The two organizations had two years left on the deal, which had been in place since 1999.
“We continuously review our marketing programs to ensure our investments are aligned with our evolving business objectives. As part of this review, we have decided to not continue as the naming rights sponsor of FedExField as we focus on our broader NFL sponsorship and opportunities that reflect our global footprint,” FedEx said in a statement. “We believe the future is bright for the Washington Commanders, and we look forward to watching the team evolve under their new ownership.”
The Commanders opened the stadium, originally known as Jack Kent Cooke Stadium, in Prince George’s County in 1997. Two years later, then-owner Dan Snyder sold the stadium’s naming rights to FedEx for more than $7.5 million per year.
Now there will be a new name atop the Commanders’ home field for the 2024 NFL season.
“We have already started the process of identifying our next stadium rights partner — a partner who will play a crucial role in ushering in the next era of not only Commanders football, but also a robust slate of top live events and concerts,” the team said in a statement.
On Tuesday, the organization’s ownership group detailed plans for $75 million in upgrades at the stadium. The improvements will include new seating options, upgraded escalators and elevators, and a sharper sound system.
“With new GM Adam Peters, new head coach Dan Quinn, the No. 2 overall draft pick and significant cap space, there is much to be excited about for the 2024 season, including a new naming rights partner,” the Commanders said.
• Liam Griffin can be reached at lgriffin@washingtontimes.com.
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