Not content with its name on one NFL stadium, Mercedes-Benz has now acquired the naming rights for the new stadium being built for the Atlanta Falcons.
This news was reported by Sports Business Daily, which notes the Falcons have not confirmed that a deal with Mercedes-Benz is in place. The report states that the contract will be signed on Friday and that the Falcons will make a formal announcement the following Monday.
Set to open in 2017, Atlanta’s modern stadium is being built by HOK at a cost of approximately $1.5 billion. It will serve not only to host the Falcons but also owner Arthur Blank’s MLS soccer franchise the Atlanta United FC.
Per the report, other events scheduled to be held at the new digs include the 2020 NCAA men’s Final Four, future Super Bowls (obviously) and College Football Playoffs.
As previously mentioned, Mercedes-Benz already has one NFL stadium under contract. The Mercedes-Benz Superdome is the home of the New Orleans Saints, so two NFC South rivals will feature the same sponsor, which could be considered kind of awkward.
However, when one considers Mercedes-Benz is moving its United States headquarters to the city of Atlanta, it’s easy to see why the company would move to make its mark on its new home.
Follow Jesse on Twitter @JesseReed78