The NFL's Carolina Panthers have secured a long-term agreement with Bank of America to extend one of the league's longest-running stadium naming rights partnerships, keeping the venue known as "The Bank" for the foreseeable future.

The comprehensive plan, which encompasses fan-focused stadium enhancements and increased private investments, is valued at more than $1.3 billion. Renovations are set to proceed at the 30-year-old venue, which continues to attract millions of visitors annually and serves as a key economic and cultural driver for Uptown Charlotte.

"The long-term extension with Bank of America reflects the strength of our partnership and our shared commitment to the Carolinas," said David Tepper, owner and chairman of Tepper Sports & Entertainment, which owns the Panthers. "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."

Bank of America Chair and CEO Brian Moynihan added: "Over the years, Bank of America's partnership with the Carolina Panthers has become one of the most enduring in professional sports. 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."

History of the Partnership

The stadium originally opened in 1996 as Ericsson Stadium, named for the Swedish telecommunications company LM Ericsson. Bank of America acquired the naming rights in 2004 under a deal spanning more than 20 years. That sponsorship has now outlasted the original Ericsson agreement and stands as one of the most enduring venue-naming relationships in the NFL, a notable mark of continuity in a league where naming-rights deals frequently turn over.

The relationship between Bank of America and the Panthers traces back to the franchise's founding in the early 1990s, when former Bank of America CEO Hugh McColl played a pivotal role in helping the Carolinas secure an NFL expansion team. That shared history laid the groundwork for a partnership that has shaped decades of fan experiences while sustaining a commitment to community impact.

Planned Renovations

Upgrades to the stadium will feature expanded indoor-outdoor gathering spaces across all levels, a 500-level social patio offering sweeping views of Uptown Charlotte, larger and more dynamic scoreboards and displays, upgraded seating options, premium hospitality offerings, and technology aimed at delivering a more connected and personalized fan experience.

Architectural renderings also reveal an elevated vision for the stadium exterior, incorporating upgraded materials and a signature illuminated crown intended to become a fixture of the Queen City skyline. Design elements will draw inspiration from the people, places, and landscapes of the Carolinas.

On-Field Context

The long-term stadium commitment arrives as the franchise builds momentum on the field. The Panthers won the NFC South this past season before falling just short of a major upset against the Los Angeles Rams on their home field. Quarterback Bryce Young is entering his fourth season, and the team will aim to reach the playoffs in consecutive years for the first time since making the postseason each year from 2013 to 2015.