It has been reported by the that MLS franchise, New York Red Bulls are holding talks with betting companies over potentially selling the naming rights to the club’s 25,000 seater stadium.
Since its opening in 2010, the stadium has been named after the club’s primary sponsor, however according to a report by the SportsBusiness Journal, the franchise is now seeking to capitalise on the overturning of PASPA and expand its sponsorship opportunities.
Franchise general manager Marc de Grandpre stated: “If we can find a partner or partners that can help us enhance our fan experience through gambling, we’re willing to have a conversation.”
The report detailed that any potential naming rights partnership could be worth an estimated $4m per year. It is widely reported that the Red Bulls’ extensive search for a new stadium sponsor commenced in 2015.
A potential deal come as other sports franchises based in the region have benefited from progressive partnerships with gambling operators. Not only has the New Jersey Devils agreed deals with Caesars Entertainment, William Hill and FanDuel but the New York Jets have also united with MGM and 888.com.
As it stands MLS rules prohibit clubs from signing partnerships, however it’s widely predicted that these limitations are set to be lifted in the new year, at around the same time that legalising sports betting is set to be discussed within New York.
It follows a trend of the MLS, when it comes to expanding sponsorship opportunities for the sides in the league, with it also recently announcing it would allow sleeve sponsorship deals from the commencing of the 2020 campaign, something that the Red Bulls may look to utilise as a sweetener in any potential stadium sponsorship deal.
On Sunday, the Red Bulls take on Atlanta United in the semi-finals as the club look to secure an elusive playoff victory.