Tepper Sports & Entertainment – owner of the NFL Carolina Panthers, MLS Charlotte FC and Bank of American Stadium – announced two significant milestones for the future of the organization and stadium: an extension of the naming rights partnership with Bank of America and the release of new stadium renderings.
The renewal of the naming rights deal builds on a decades-long relationship between the two organizations. Bank of America bought the naming rights to the venue (previously known as Ericsson Stadium) under an initial 20-year, $140 million contract in 2004 – making it one of the longest running in the NFL. Details of the new agreement were not released.
As part of the announcement, Tepper Sports & Entertainment released new renderings that provide the clearest look yet at the future of the stadium, highlighting enhancements shaped by fan feedback and design elements inspired by the character of the Carolinas.
“The long-term extension with Bank of America reflects the strength of our partnership and our shared commitment to the Carolinas,” stated David Tepper, owner and Chairman of Tepper Sports & Entertainment in the announcement. “For over three decades, Bank of America Stadium has helped create lasting memories for our fans and we’re excited for them to see what’s ahead. Our goal is to create experiences that enhance the passion and energy of the region while transforming this corridor into a weekend destination for world-class sports, entertainment and community events.”
The relationship between Bank of America and the Carolina Panthers pe-dates the original deal reaching back to the team’s founding in the early 1990s, when former Bank of America CEO Hugh McColl played a key role in helping secure the NFL expansion franchise for the Carolinas, which laid the foundation for the ongoing partnership.
“Over the years, Bank of America’s partnership with the Carolina Panthers has become one of the most enduring in professional sports,” added Brian Moynihan, Chair and CEO of Bank of America. “With nearly 20,000 teammates and a local history dating back to 1874, our ties to Charlotte run deep, and so does our commitment to its continued growth. The extension recognizes Bank of America Stadium’s important role of attracting millions of visitors, driving economic opportunity and showcasing Charlotte and the Carolinas.”
The announcement comes as Bank of America Stadium, which opened in 1996, enters its next chapter and a comprehensive renovation. The City of Charlotte has committed $650 million for the project with TSE covering the remainder of the $1.3 billion cost. TSE will also fund all potential overages and ongoing maintenance obligations under the agreement.
Every area of the stadium is being reimagined to create a better experience for fans, with many of the upgrades informed by feedback gathered through surveys, focus groups and online engagement.
New renderings showcase expanded indoor-outdoor gathering spaces across all levels, a 500-level social patio with views of Uptown Charlotte, larger and more dynamic scoreboards, upgraded seating options, premium offerings and technology designed to create a more connected and personalized experience. The renderings also reveal an elevated vision for the stadium exterior, with upgraded materials and a signature illuminated crown for the Queen City skyline.
Additional improvements include expanded retail and food-and-beverage options, increased restroom capacity and flexible event spaces that will support game days while serving community, corporate and other special events throughout the year.
Plans also include a 4,400-capacity entertainment venue that will host up to 100 events a year and provide enhanced hospitality on NFL gamedays.
“The City of Charlotte takes great pride in the future of Bank of America Stadium. It remains one of our city’s crown jewels as an important public asset supporting thousands of local jobs, strengthening our economy and serving as a cornerstone of the Charlotte community that brings people to Charlotte and brings Charlotteans together,” continued Mayor Rob Harrington. “This work is an investment in Charlotte’s future – preserving an iconic venue, enhancing the fan experience and ensuring Bank of America Stadium continues to create unforgettable memories while giving visitors countless reasons to return to our city for years to come.”
Construction on the multi-year renovation remains on schedule and is being carefully phased to allow Bank of America Stadium to continue hosting Carolina Panthers games and Charlotte FC matches throughout the project. Interior work is taking place in 2026 with fan-facing elements set to begin in 2027. It is scheduled to be completed in 2030.
