Why Arrowhead Stadium Changed Its Name

By Jason Bolton January 30, 2024 02:36

Arrowhead Stadium, the home of the Kansas City Chiefs, underwent a significant change in its name, with the field being renamed to GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. This change was initiated through a naming rights agreement with GEHA, a national leader in providing medical and dental plans to federal employees, retired military, and their families worldwide. The agreement reflects a deep connection to the local community and respect for Chiefs Kingdom, aligning with the core values shared by both organizations.

Historical Significance

The history of Arrowhead Stadium is deeply intertwined with the Kansas City Chiefs and their iconic stadium. Named by the late Lamar Hunt, then owner of the Chiefs, the stadium's original name, "Arrowhead," was declared to be a symbolic representation of the team and its Native American motif. The Chiefs' name itself can be traced back to former Kansas City Mayor H. Roe Bartle, who played a pivotal role in attracting the team to Kansas City, thereby leading to the adoption of the name "Chiefs" through a popular contest.

Motivation Behind the Change

The decision to sell the naming rights for Arrowhead Stadium to GEHA reflects a strategic move by the Chiefs to form a partnership with a national leader that shares their core values and has a deep connection to the local community. This aligns with the organization's commitment to building lasting health and wellness programs that support the team, GEHA, and the community.

Longstanding Legacy

Arrowhead Stadium, built in 1972, has undergone multiple renovations over the years while retaining its unique architectural integrity. The stadium has witnessed various improvements, including the installation of high-definition video displays, the adoption of a new playing surface known as NorthBridge Bermudagrass, and the completion of a multimillion-dollar integrated system. Moreover, Arrowhead Stadium is set to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which necessitates small renovations to comply with FIFA field regulations, including a reduction in seating capacity in the corners of the end zones and improvements to its ventilation system.

Sporting and Community Events

Arrowhead Stadium has been the venue for numerous significant sporting events, including hosting various international and club friendly matches, as well as serving as the home stadium for the Kansas City Wiz, later renamed the Wizards, before they moved to a new location. Additionally, the stadium has hosted multiple Big 12 Conference football championship games and the annual "Farmageddon" game between the Iowa State Cyclones and the Kansas State Wildcats, showcasing its significance in the sporting community.

the change in the name of Arrowhead Stadium to GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium signifies a strategic partnership between the Kansas City Chiefs and GEHA, reflecting their shared core values and commitment to the local community. This change represents a new chapter in the stadium's longstanding legacy, which has witnessed numerous historic sporting and community events over the years.