Local Sports

By Zeke Fuhrman |

Xcel Energy Center to Become Grand Casino Arena Under New 14-Year Naming Rights Deal

Xcel energy center
The Wild take the ice against the Nashville Predators at the Xcel Energy Center on March 14th, 2022 (Photo: Zeke Fuhrman)

SAINT PAUL, Minn. (KWAD) — In a new partnership set to reshape downtown Saint Paul’s entertainment landscape, Minnesota Sports & Entertainment (MSE) and the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe announced Monday June 30th a 14-year naming rights agreement that will rename the Xcel Energy Center to Grand Casino Arena beginning September 3, 2025.

The arena, home to the NHL’s Minnesota Wild and more than 150 events annually, has carried the Xcel Energy name since it opened in 2000. The new name signals the end of a 25-year era and the start of a new chapter for the iconic venue.

“Grand Casino Arena will serve as the anchor of a dynamic entertainment district that transforms downtown Saint Paul,” said Craig Leipold, majority owner of MSE. “The Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe has been a strong supporter of and investor in this city. We are thrilled for their partnership and support of the arena.”

Ronda Weizenegger, CEO of Grand Casino, emphasized the broader vision behind the name change. “This is more than a name change — it’s a signal of where we’re headed as a business. Grand Casino Arena represents the strength of tribal enterprise, and our ongoing investment in Minnesota’s future.”

The naming rights agreement includes a full overhaul of the arena’s signage, including exterior branding and interior elements such as the center ice logo, all to be completed before the start of the 2025-26 NHL season.

While the naming rights will transition, the Minnesota Wild will continue their strong partnership with Xcel Energy through a newly announced multi-year agreement focused on community and business collaboration.

Since opening its doors in 2000, the 17,954-seat venue has welcomed over 33.5 million fans and hosted events ranging from NHL games and state high school tournaments to concerts by global superstars like Taylor Swift, Prince, and Bruce Springsteen. It has also served as a platform for major events such as the 2008 Republican National Convention and the NCAA Men’s Frozen Four.

Grand Casino, which operates gaming resorts in Mille Lacs and Hinckley, is a mission-driven enterprise of the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe focused on sustainable economic development and cultural enrichment.