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International recording artist Pitbull is buying the naming rights to Florida International University's football stadium in Miami. According to ESPN’s Pete Thamel, the renowned rapper will pay the school $1.2 million per year for five years, renaming FIU Stadium to 'Pitbull Stadium'.
The deal includes creating an anthem for FIU, posting about the school on social media 12 times a year, and attending one athletic fundraising event annually, per Ben Portnoy of Sports Business Journal.
Pitbull will have access to the stadium for 10 days each year, and his vodka brand will be the preferred choice at the stadium. He'll also enjoy perks like two reserved suites for all home football games.
The stadium was previously called Riccardo Silva Stadium from 2017-22 and was named after the Miami FC owner.
Fans are buzzing on social media after news of this unexpected change appeared. Some are suggesting fun ideas:
“Change the mascot while we are at it! The FIU Pitbulls!”
“Should purchase the university too and rename it Florida Worldwide,” one commented.
“That's f**king awesome,” another commented.
“Mr Worldwide Stadium has a nicer ring to it,” another commented.
“I would rather Pitbull stadium than some random company or Crypto lol,” a fan wrote.
“Pit Bowl,” one fan wrote.
This move reflects Pitbull's Miami roots, as he's known as 'Mr. 305', with 305 being the area code for Miami. It's also seen as a boost for FIU's football program which has struggled recently and hasn't made a bowl game since 2019.
Pitbull's big move from music mogul to sports tycoon
Pitbull, the famous Miami-born rapper (real name Armando Perez), is considering a big move into the sports world. With an estimated net worth of $100 million, he has bought the naming rights for Florida International University's football stadium.
On Tuesday's Le Batard Show, Billy Gil shared the news, and said:
"Incredible. Paws up, I think, around the world right now."
While other hosts on the show shouted:
“Armando Stadium. Armando Stadium, ladies and gentlemen.”
Besides music, Pitbull is already a minority owner in the NASCAR team Trackhouse Racing. However, it's unclear if he's ever attended an FIU game.
As FIU gears up for its third season under head coach Mike MacIntyre, they’re set to open 'Pitbull Stadium' against Central Michigan on Sept. 7.
