The Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, home to both the NBA’s 76ers and NHL’s Flyers, will soon be rebranded as the Xfinity Mobile Arena starting this September. This new name will remain in effect until the end of the 2030-2031 season. The announcement was made by Comcast Spectacor, part of Comcast, along with Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (HBSE), the investment firm behind the 76ers and other prominent sports franchises.
Financial details of the naming rights deal were not disclosed. Comcast is also set to retain naming rights to a new arena currently in development, which is expected to open in the 2031-2032 season.
The Wells Fargo Center underwent a significant renovation that concluded last year, costing approximately $400 million. With the rebranding to Xfinity Mobile Arena, fans will benefit from upgraded Wi-Fi services provided by Xfinity Mobile, which will be accessible to existing customers at no additional charge.
This shift to focus on the mobile sector comes as Comcast reported a growth in its mobile customer base, adding 323,000 lines last month, bringing the total to roughly 8.15 million lines. As competition in broadband has intensified, Comcast’s mobile services have become a key area for growth.
The connection of the Xfinity brand with a large sports venue aims to increase brand recognition and enhance the experience for fans. Steve Croney, COO for Comcast’s connectivity platforms, expressed that Philadelphia’s passionate fan environment aligns perfectly with the competitive spirit of the Xfinity Mobile brand, promising an unmatched experience at local sporting events.
In summary, this rebranding signifies not only a new chapter for the venue but also a strategic move by Comcast to strengthen its mobile business amid increasing competitive pressures in the broadband market. The collaboration with local sports teams brings potential excitement and engagement between the brand and the community, highlighting a promising future for both parties involved.