FC Porto to resume stadium renovation works at end of season
Launched during last pre-season, the renovation works at the Estádio do Dragão will resume following the conclusion of the 2025/26 season. The second phase of the project will once again focus on three key pillars: infrastructure, services, and technology.
With the objective of enhancing the fan experience and preparing the Estádio do Dragão for the 2030 World Cup, FC Porto has introduced a new ticketing solution, implemented an innovative lighting system, and fully refurbished the corporate boxes and hospitality areas. The Club has also upgraded its F&B offering through the installation of a central kitchen and several satellite kitchens. The modernization process will now move into its next phase.
In line with the guidelines set out in the Strategic Plan - which also prioritises the enhancement and long-term valorisation of Club infrastructure - FC Porto plans to increase the number of hospitality seats. Instead of the current four tiers, nine integrated concepts will be offered under FC Porto Premium Experiences.
To respond to strong demand for hospitality products, which frequently sell out before the start of competitions, FC Porto will optimise spaces that have so far been underutilised within hospitality areas and create new zones that can be activated throughout the year - both for the Club’s core activities and for events organised by external partners.
Within this context, the second phase of the Central East Stand Premium development will further enhance the attractiveness of these seats for FC Porto members and fans. The expansion of autonomous bars equipped with AiFi - a technology that enables purchases without queues for ordering or payment - will introduce frictionless service into common areas, improving overall matchday experience.
At the same time, assessment studies of the Stadium’s current infrastructure have already begun in order to evaluate future intervention needs regarding the roof.
Among the measures included in the services pillar is the relocation of the Member Store to the Museum area, where a larger and more modern space will be created, enabling members to carry out all membership-related operations in a single location.
Digital Transformation remains a priority for FC Porto. Following the launch of the Portal do Sócio (Member Portal) and the bilhetes.fcporto.pt platform, the next step will be the launch of a Hospitality App, designed to strengthen and centralize the relationship between the Club, its partners, and their respective guests. A Super App is also planned, with the aim of integrating the entire FC Porto ecosystem into a single digital environment.
LAFC and RUCKUS deploy Wi-Fi 7 at BMO Stadium
Vistance Networks, a global provider of intelligent network solutions, announced that its RUCKUS® Networks business, in collaboration with the Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC), has completed the deployment of a next-generation Wi-Fi 7 network at BMO Stadium. This early industry installation for Major League Soccer (MLS) establishes a new benchmark for high-density wireless connectivity in sports venues, designed to elevate every facet of the fan journey.
“From day one, our vision at BMO Stadium has been to merge world-class sport with world-class technology. Selecting RUCKUS to build the first Wi-Fi 7 network in MLS was a strategic decision to extend our leadership on and off the pitch,” said Christian Lau, CTO, LAFC. “Having partnered with RUCKUS since 2018, we trust their expertise in delivering robust, innovative infrastructure. This network is the backbone for our entire digital ecosystem—ensuring seamless experiences from mobile ticketing and concessions to immersive fan engagement for every one of our 22,000 guests.”
The BMO Stadium deployment leverages a strategic mix of RUCKUS Wi-Fi 7 Access Points (APs), including the high-performance T670 for under-seat coverage and the T670SN with hyper-directional antenna technology for precise, high-density targeting in concourses and club spaces. This architecture provides blanket, high-speed coverage capable of supporting thousands of concurrent connections.
The network is autonomously managed and optimized by the RUCKUS AI™ platform, an intelligent management and assurance solution that provides real-time analytics, predictive issue resolution, and dynamic optimization for the complex stadium environment. RUCKUS Professional Services orchestrated the seamless integration of the new Wi-Fi 7 infrastructure with the venue's existing network systems.
“LAFC consistently pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in sports venue technology. Partnering with them to deliver this landmark Wi-Fi 7 deployment is a testament to our shared commitment to innovation and exceptional fan experiences,” said Bart Giordano, SVP and president, RUCKUS Networks. “This installation isn’t just about faster Wi-Fi; it’s about providing a reliable, enterprise-grade digital foundation that LAFC can build upon for years to come—powering new applications and revenue opportunities that engage a new generation of fans.”
Advent leading creative direction for Bank of America Stadium Experience Center
Tepper Sports & Entertainment (TSE) has unveiled plans for a new, privately-funded Bank of America Stadium Experience Center – an immersive destination designed to bring the future of the venue to life. Lowe’s, headquartered in Mooresville, N.C., will serve as the Official Stadium Renovation Partner of Bank of America Stadium. The expanded commitment underscores Lowe’s deep roots in the Carolinas and its passion for improving its communities.
Set to open later this summer, the Experience Center will inspire guests with a dynamic, hands-on, multisensory journey that showcases what is next for one of the Carolinas’ most iconic venues. Highlights include dynamic hologram moments, replicated club lounge spaces, an interactive stadium model showcasing key design elements, historical lookbacks, and more. At the heart of the experience is the Immersive Cube, a cutting-edge technology that lets visitors step inside the project, explore detailed renderings, and truly grasp the scale, layout, and vision behind the transformation.
“Every element of the Bank of America Stadium Experience Center was designed with purpose, ensuring fans, partners, and community members can explore our renovation plans in a setting that reflects the care and attention we’re bringing to the future of the stadium,” said Eric Sudol, chief revenue officer at Tepper Sports & Entertainment. “As our hometown home improvement provider, Lowe’s was a natural partner as we modernize one of the Southeast’s premier venues. Their longstanding commitment to the Carolinas and our teams makes this next chapter a seamless extension of a partnership built around serving the people and places that define our community.”
As the Official Stadium Renovation Partner of Bank of America Stadium, Lowe’s will provide building materials to the job site and help bring the renovations to life.
“This project goes beyond renovation – it’s about reimagining an iconic venue and creating meaningful experiences for fans, families and the community for generations to come,” said Jen Wilson, Lowe’s chief marketing officer and senior vice president. “As the Official Stadium Renovation Partner, we’re proud to put our product and services expertise, our brand and our hometown commitment at the center of this transformation."
Experiential design firm Advent is leading the creative direction for the Bank of America Stadium Experience Center, which will be located in Uptown Charlotte at 720 S. Church Street (Legacy Union) and open in time for the 2026 Panthers season.
"Advent jumped at the chance to work with Tepper Sports & Entertainment and their incredibly talented team. Even though we call ourselves the 'sales center storytelling company', nothing compares to a project like Bank of America Stadium,” said Advent CEO, John Roberson. “We have been so impressed by the heartfelt enthusiasm and professionalism of their great team. We can't wait to help bring this renovation to life."
The Experience Center will feature an adjacent sales office, where TSE’s commercial team – that includes both the Carolina Panthers and Charlotte FC – will be based throughout the renovation. The Experience Center and adjoining office space, totaling approximately 15,700 square feet, are under a 48-month lease agreement with Highwoods Realty Limited Partnership.
Miami Open: Fresh Del Monte returns as official sponsor
Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc., one of the world’s leading producers, marketers, and distributors of high-quality fresh and fresh-cut fruit, is serving up a refreshing treat for pro tennis fans as part of its return as the official sponsor of the Miami Open, now in its 41st year. From March 15 through March 29 at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fla., attendees of the prestigious tennis tournament can indulge in three one-of-a-kind smoothie combinations, including its newest Grand Slam Green Smoothie, available at Fresh Del Monte’s Courtside Smoothie experience at the event’s Sunset Terrace.
“Going into year three of our partnership, we’re excited to serve up a refreshing, courtside experience that provides Miami Opening attendees with three tried-and-true, nutrient-packed smoothie blends,” said Danny Dumas, Senior Vice President of Sales, Marketing, and Product Management for Fresh Del Monte, North America. “These refreshing blends offer rapid hydration and instant energy in a convenient, portable cup, for a quick way to cool down courtside.”
Fans can experience the following smoothie varieties at this year’s tournament:
- Grand Slam Green Smoothie: A rally of bananas, pineapple juice, spinach, kale, pineapple, and coconut milk
- Pinkglow® Sunset Serve: A blend of mango, Pinkglow® Pineapple, banana, and coconut water, with a splash of orange juice
- Match Point Smoothie: A winning combination of fresh mango, papaya, orange juice, and lime juice
Fresh Del Monte will take over the videoboards throughout the tournament and run on-court activations during six select matches in the main stadium. Fans can participate in giveaways on the brand’s social media channels ahead of the tournament for a chance to win match tickets and try Fresh Del Monte’s Courtside Smoothies for themselves.
Cadiz seal new stadium naming rights deal
Cádiz CF and JP Financial have announced their new strategic sponsorship agreement, which will see the clubs' Nuevo Mirandilla stadium named as JP Financial Stadium for the next five years.
"This agreement goes far beyond sponsorship. It is a commitment to Cadiz, to its people and to an incomparable fan. We want JP Financial Stadium to represent commitment, professionalism and sustainable growth," said Javier Rumbo, CEO and founder of JP Financial.
The president of the Cádiz Football Club, Manuel Vizcaíno, has underlined the strategic importance of the deal, saying: "Today we take a fundamental step in the recent history of the club. JP Financial joins our path with the conviction and strength of those who believe in this project and in this hobby. Carrying your name in our stadium for the dispute of our events is a responsibility that we proudly assume. This agreement will allow us to continue growing as an institution and strengthen our link with Cadiz.”
In addition to the implementation of the new trade name of the stadium for events, the agreement incorporates a set of social initiatives that both entities will jointly develop in the city over the next five years, combining responsible financial access and training programs aimed at different groups.
The sponsorship agreement, with an initial validity of five years, is effective immediately. The new name, JP Financial Stadium, will begin to appear in the club's signage, official communications and audiovisual platforms over the next few weeks.
With this alliance, Cádiz Club de Fútbol continues to promote its global project of institutional growth and its commitment to the province, while JP Financial reinforces its positioning as an entity that combines access to financial solutions and education as a tool for progress.
Manchester City submit planning application for new venue
This latest proposal is part of the new Medlock Square development and builds on the Club’s long-held ambition to develop East Manchester into a thriving year-round entertainment destination for visitors from Manchester, the UK and around the world to visit and enjoy.
Situated at the north-east of the Campus, the proposed three storey event venue has been designed to complement Co-op Live, as well as the Etihad Stadium’s expanded North Stand and its associated facilities at Medlock Square, including the Medlock Hotel, a wide variety of food and drink outlets, a new club shop, museum and roof walk, all of which are set to open later this year.
Working with investors and producers, Pophouse Entertainment, the Club’s proposals for the Campus will offer a unique theatrical dining experience for up to 600 guests per show.Mamma Mia! The Party combines premium hospitality with a live theatrical production, delivering a quality dining and entertainment experience. Following the continued success of the London production at The O2 since 2019, and the Stockholm production recently celebrating its 10th anniversary, the proposed Manchester site will mark the next phase of the global hit’s expansion.
As with all of the Club’s proposed developments, ensuring that the local community benefit from new facilities remains a priority, with a continued commitment to introduce further job opportunities across a range of roles in addition to those that are already available Campus wide through the Etihad Stadium and Co-op Live.
In line with the Club’s long-term commitment to reducing vehicle traffic in and around the Campus, visitors will also be encouraged to use public transport, walk or cycle to the venue.
The Club will be hosting a drop-in event at Beswick Library between 16:00 (UK) and 18:30 (UK) on Thursday 26 March for local residents who would like to find out more about the Club’s proposals. Alternatively, residents can submit their views to the Club by completing the form below:
Commenting on the Club’s planning application, Danny Wilson – Managing Director, Manchester City Operations, said: “Working with Pophouse, the Club’s latest proposal to further develop the Etihad Campus is an incredibly exciting opportunity for both East Manchester and the wider city more generally.
“We know there is ever increasing demand for more immersive, entertainment experiences in the North of England and we are incredibly proud to have put forward plans for consideration by Manchester City Council to bring a world-renowned event to Manchester’s newest entertainment destination, Medlock Square.
“As with all of our developments, we remain focused on ensuring that our local community benefit from any new facilities, not only in terms of jobs and training during construction, but through our local supply chain and permanent jobs across the Campus enabling local people to build their careers with us.”
Pophouse Chief Executive Officer, Jessica Koravos, added: “Manchester is known for its enthusiasm and innovation in music and entertainment and we cannot think of anywhere better to bring one of the world’s most popular and ground breaking theatrical productions. We are therefore delighted to be working with Manchester City to bring forward proposals for Mamma Mia! The Party to join Manchester’s newest entertainment destination, Medlock Square.
“Mamma Mia! The Party has been hugely successful in London, with audiences continuing to love the experience even seven years after its opening, and we are excited to be able to expand on that success, with plans to give it a new home in Manchester for many more people to enjoy.”
American Express announces new stadium and team partnerships
American Express will soon offer exclusive access, value and experiences for Card Members in the New York/New Jersey and Atlanta metropolitan areas through new long-term partnerships. American Express will be named the Official Payments Partner of MetLife Stadium, the New York Jets, the New York Giants, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta United and the newly awarded National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) team which will begin play in 2028. This builds on partnerships announced last year with Hard Rock Stadium and the Miami Dolphins in South Florida.
As part of these agreements, MetLife Stadium and Mercedes-Benz Stadium will join the American Express Venue Collection™, a benefit for eligible Card Members which includes access to Amex Presale Tickets® (while supplies last) for select events, the option to enrol in an exclusive offer to earn a statement credit on qualifying concession purchases, and more throughout the stadiums. Eligible Card Members will be able to access these perks at Mercedes-Benz Stadium starting with the spring event season and at MetLife Stadium heading into the NFL season later this year.
“Recognizing the importance of sports and music fandom, we are creating even more value for our customers across moments that matter to them through these new partnerships,” said Elizabeth Rutledge, Chief Marketing Officer at American Express. “The new stadium and NFL team partnerships in the New York, Atlanta and Miami areas further cement our role as a leading payments partner in sports and entertainment, while continuing to expand our presence in football.”
“We are pleased to announce our partnership with American Express,” said Ron VanDeVeen, President and CEO of MetLife Stadium. “We value American Express’ customer-first philosophy, and we look forward to a wonderful collaboration that will enhance the fan experience through exclusive benefits and meaningful experiences that American Express is renowned for. The New York Giants, New York Jets and MetLife Stadium are honored to welcome American Express as a partner, and together we will offer the world’s best customer experience on the world’s biggest stage.”
“American Express is one of the world’s most respected brands, known for service, innovation and putting customers first,” said Nana-Yaw Asamoah, Chief Commercial Officer of AMB Sports and Entertainment (AMBSE). “Those values align perfectly with our organization and our commitment to delivering world-class experiences at Mercedes-Benz Stadium and across our teams. We are proud to welcome American Express as a Founding Partner and look forward to creating extraordinary opportunities for our fans and community together.”
These new stadiums, MLS/NWLS and NFL team sponsorships – together with those announced in Miami last year – expand and strengthen American Express’ world-class portfolio of sports and entertainment partnerships. Spanning football, soccer, basketball, tennis, golf, motorsports, hockey, music, theatre and more, the portfolio underscores why Amex is your ticket to some of the best in sports and entertainment.
Chicago Fire break ground on new $750 million stadium
Chicago Fire FC today officially broke ground on its new $750 million privately-funded soccer stadium in the South Loop, marking a defining moment for the Club and a transformative investment in the future of Chicago.
Club Owner and Chairman Joe Mansueto, joined by President of Business Operations Dave Baldwin, city leaders, project partners, and community stakeholders, commemorated the milestone at a ceremonial groundbreaking in the South Loop. The development underscores Mansueto’s long-term commitment to Chicago and belief in the continued growth of Major League Soccer.
A Billion-Dollar Commitment to Chicago
Since acquiring full ownership of the Club in 2019, Mansueto has committed more than $1 billion toward the long-term transformation of Chicago Fire FC, including the $100 million Endeavor Health Performance Center, enhanced Academy investment, and front office expansion. The new $750 million stadium represents the next chapter in a comprehensive vision to build a world-class soccer organization on and off the pitch.
“This is a historic day for Chicago Fire FC and for the city we are proud to call home,” said Joe Mansueto, Owner and Chairman of Chicago Fire FC. “This stadium is about investing in Chicago and creating a world-class home for our fans, players, and community. We are fully committed to delivering a venue that reflects the passion of the city and the ambition of this Club.”
Designed for Atmosphere, Built for Chicago
Designed by Gensler, the open-air stadium will seat more than 22,000 fans and feature a natural grass playing surface, 360-degree viewing, a dedicated supporters’ section engineered for atmosphere, and premium hospitality offerings that rival the best venues in global sport.
In addition to serving as the permanent home of Chicago Fire FC, the venue will host concerts, international sports matches, community events, and other large-scale programming year-round.
Located along the Chicago River at The 78, the venue will be a centerpiece of a vibrant mixed-use neighborhood and a catalyst for continued economic development and significant job opportunities in the South Loop. The riverfront location will integrate public plazas, activated outdoor spaces, and connectivity to surrounding retail and residential development, positioning the stadium as both a matchday destination and a year-round city asset.
“This groundbreaking represents years of vision, planning, and partnership,” said Dave Baldwin, President of Business Operations for Chicago Fire FC. “From day one, our goal has been to create one of the best sports and entertainment experiences in North America – one that is authentic to Chicago and designed with our fans at the center. Today is proof that we are delivering on that promise.”
The stadium is expected to open ahead of the 2028 MLS season, becoming the first major professional stadium built in Chicago in more than 30 years.
Building the Future of the Club—On and Off the Pitch
Today’s milestone builds on a series of strategic investments designed to elevate every aspect of the Club. In 2025, the Fire opened the Endeavor Health Performance Center, a $100 million, state-of-the-art training facility that supports first team, Chicago Fire II, and Academy operations under one roof. The Club also relocated its business operations to the iconic Wrigley Building in downtown Chicago, reinforcing its long-term commitment to the city’s core.
Earlier this year, the Club unveiled the Dear Chicago Experience Center in the Wrigley Building, a 9,000-square-foot immersive space featuring stadium renderings, interactive design elements, and product previews that offer fans and partners a tangible look at the future home of the Fire.
The stadium project brings together a premier team across development, design, construction, and commercial strategy, including Related Midwest as master developer of The 78, Gensler as lead architect, and a three-way construction partnership between Chicago-based Pepper Construction, GMA Construction Group, and All Construction Group.
Populous appoints new Head of Design for Asia Pacific
Award winning architect and designer Fiona Nixon has been appointed as leading global design and architecture firm Populous’ Head of Design for the Asia Pacific region.
This dedicated leadership role is focused on curating and elevating architectural design processes across all Populous’ projects in the region, irrespective of scale.
Fiona has split her career between Australia and Singapore specialising in the planning and design of programmatically intense environments for living, learning, leisure and work. Her projects include the Lalu Hotel Sun Moon Lake in Taiwan, the Victorian College of the Arts Centre for Ideas and the Australian Wildlife Health Centre, and Changi Airport Group Headquarters in Singapore.
Fiona will work across the entire APAC region and engage with teams globally, working closely with Global Head of Design Christopher Lee. She will be based in Populous’ Singapore studio where the firm is designing projects that will contribute to the country’s economic and social development such as the 30,000-seat NS Square and 15,000-seat arena that will complement and enhance the iconic Marina Bay Sands integrated resort.
“What excites me about this role is that it’s new and it’s purposeful. I’ve got a very specific task to ensure that we are leading by design and I’m really excited by that challenge to look across APAC and bring inspiration from projects globally. This will ensure that our designs prioritize the communities who use them and bring people into the places they love to be,” Fiona said.
Populous’ Managing Director, APAC, Richard Breslin said Fiona would foster Populous’ design strategy, approach and talent, ensuring design is at the forefront of everything the leading architecture firm does.
“Fiona brings a cross section of expertise that we are very fortunate to have with more than 35 years of experience across Australia and Asia specialising in the design of experience-driven buildings and interiors,” Richard said.
“We are excited to have Fiona as part of our team sharing her passion for integrating buildings into the fabric of cities and delivering lasting civic, social and economic value.”
Populous’ integrated global network of design leaders
Fiona joins an integrated network of design leaders at Populous, setting design standards across all Populous projects and supporting architectural teams through design reviews and educational sessions, as well as promoting equitable design that is accessible to all.
Global Head of Design Christopher Lee said that Populous’ network of regional design leaders would provide insight, innovation and in-depth knowledge of trends across building typologies.
“Fiona’s appointment is an essential part of our global design network. We are really excited about the ability of our regional design leaders to implement knowledge and learnings across our teams and help deliver consistent design excellence for our clients,” Christopher said.
“Great design is at the heart of everything we do at Populous. As our projects become more complex, it’s important that we have this dedicated focus on quality and design excellence.”
Fiona is a licensed Architect in Singapore, Australia and APEC and a member of the Singapore Institute of Architects. In 2024, she was awarded a prestigious Life Fellowship of the Australian Institute of Architects in recognition of her contribution to the advancement of the profession through design, construction, advocacy and urban design.
The Athletics team up with Aramark for new hospitality experience
The Athletics (A’s), world-renowned restaurateur Will Guidara, and Aramark Sports + Entertainment have revealed the vision for the Athletic Club: a first-of-its-kind, all-inclusive hospitality experience that will be located directly behind home plate in the A’s new Las Vegas ballpark, set to open in 2028.
Designed to transform the traditional game-day experience and completely reimagine baseball hospitality, the Athletic Club has been meticulously crafted by Guidara –- author of Unreasonable Hospitality, former co-owner of the Best Restaurant in the World, and Co-Producer on the Emmy Award-winning series “The Bear” –- and marks the first time he’s implementing his pioneering hospitality principles within a professional sports venue.
“What we set out to build here is something a little different — a space built around a simple idea: what if getting to the stadium early became one of the best parts of the night?” said Guidara. “Some of the best moments in life happen around a table. It’s where people slow down, share a drink, tell stories, and settle into each other’s company. We wanted to bring that spirit into the ballpark and create a place where gathering together is part of the experience, not just a stop along the way to the game.
Every part of the space was designed with intention — the food, the service, the atmosphere, the details you might not notice right away but feel the moment you walk in. At the center of it all is a commitment to thoughtfulness and genuine graciousness. Our hope is that it pushes the conversation forward about how people come together before a game and opens the door to a new kind of ballpark experience — one that begins long before the first pitch.”
The Athletic Club is designed to be the most exclusive space in the ballpark, with access reserved for A’s premium season-ticket members seated behind home plate. Members will enjoy a private restaurant and supper club offering a multi-course, table-service menu, as well as an upscale lounge featuring small plates and a full bar with craft beer, curated wines, and premium cocktails.
Every game will feature personalized, high‑touch hospitality delivered by maître d’s, sommeliers, and dining concierges who anticipate needs, honor personal preferences, and create memorable moments. The experience has been designed to extend throughout the length of each game, sustaining a vibrant energy with special grab‑and‑go offerings, in‑seat beverage service, surprise culinary moments, and a dramatic signature candy wall.
Diamond Club Joins Lineup of Elevated Premium Spaces
To further amplify the stadium’s premium hospitality program, Aramark and Guidara have also developed the Diamond Club, an all‑inclusive social hub for premium ticket members located adjacent to the Athletic Club behind home plate. Diamond Club members will enjoy a food and beverage experience featuring Vegas-inspired food stations inclusive of locally curated dishes, chef’s specials, and a bold selection of elevated game day favorites.
Aramark Sports + Entertainment President and CEO Alison Birdwell said that Las Vegas inspired their premium approach from the start. “Vegas is a truly one‑of‑a‑kind market, and we set out to introduce an entirely new level of hospitality that matches the energy and spectacle of the city,” she said. “We’re creating a ballpark environment where service and food redefine the way fans enjoy baseball. Partnering with Will ensures that we deliver a Vegas‑worthy experience that creates memories for guests that will last a lifetime.”
“The Athletic Club is about providing fans with something innovative and unique that exists only in Las Vegas,” said A’s President Marc Badain. “By partnering with Will and Aramark, we’re setting a new standard for baseball hospitality, delivering exceptional food and service in a way that feels right at home in this city.”