Mr. Worldwide is leaving his impression on college athletics as global music icon Pitbull has acquired the naming rights for Florida International University’s football stadium.
On Tuesday, it was disclosed that Pitbull, whose real name is Armando Perez, entered into a five-year agreement valued at $6 million, with an option for extension following the initial period. This makes the stadium the first college athletic facility named in honor of a musician.
In addition to FIU’s promotional videos showcasing ‘Pitbull Stadium’, the Miami native also attended a press conference at the university’s Tamiami Hall alongside Athletic Director Scott Carr.
‘It’s an incredible honor to officially unveil a partnership that is unique to the 305 with a global brand,’ Carr stated. ‘This is a historic moment, being the first time a collegiate athletics venue is named after a globally recognized musician.’
‘Just imagine this—should I say with a Kodak?’ Carr continued, referencing a line from Pitbull’s 2011 hit ‘Give Me Everything’. ‘Pitbull performing at Pitbull Stadium. Can you picture that?’
Rapper Pitbull acquired the naming rights for Florida International University’s stadium.
‘We are not doing this for show,’ Perez stated. ‘Our intentions come from the heart.’
The home of the Panthers has been referred to as ‘FIU Stadium’ for the past two years amid various naming-rights arrangements. Between 2017 and 2022, the stadium was named after Italian entrepreneur Riccardo Silva, who invested nearly $4 million to upgrade the venue.
Under the terms of the new agreement, Pitbull’s vodka label Voli 305 will be available during FIU games. He will also enjoy two suites for hosting up to 40 guests, the ability to use the venue for ten days annually, and the position of ‘Official Entrepreneur of FIU Athletics.’
As part of the arrangement, Pitbull will compose an anthem for the university and promote it through his social media platforms.
The Miami native entered a five-year deal worth $6 million with a possibility to extend.
The venue was previously called Riccardo Silva Stadium but has been referred to as ‘FIU Stadium’ since 2017.
In addition to hosting the Panthers, the stadium also accommodates the USL club Miami FC, owned by Silva.
Established in 2002, FIU football competes in Division 1’s FBS. Despite being a relatively young program, they have participated in five bowl games and secured victory in two of those appearances.
