Florida International’s college football stadium became the first college athletics venue with an artist owning the naming rights when the program announced a partnership to rebrand FIU Stadium to Pitbull Stadium.
“This partnership with FIU is a true honor and a testament to what we can achieve when we work hard,” Armando Christian Pérez, known as Pitbull, said in a press release. “Renaming the stadium isn’t just about a name change. It’s about inspiring the community, creating opportunities and showing the world that with determination and a clear vision, anything is possible. We’re making history together, and we’re just getting started. Why dream when you can live it?”
How Much Is FIU Paying Pitbull For Stadium Naming Rights?
Pitbull and FIU entered a 10-year agreement and, according to ESPN, Pitbull will pay FIU $1.2 million per year.
Pitbull, also called Mr. 305 because of Miami’s area code, began his career in south Florida. He’s involved in youth education initiatives in the area. He’s known for songs like “I Know You Want Me (Calle Ocho),” “Timber,” and “Give Me Everything.”
Per ESPN, Pitbull will write an anthem for the team, appear at fundraising events, and post on social media about the Panthers as part of the agreement.
“This is a historic day for FIU Athletics to uniquely partner with a world-renowned artist and amazing person who truly values relationships and his community,” FIU athletic director Scott Carr said. “Armando’s financial support is program-changing, but him providing a microphone to amplify FIU will be even more beneficial to growing our brand. I couldn’t be more excited about our partnership as this will take us to another level. We can now officially say: ‘Paws Up, Dale!'”
