A unique deal.
We’ve seen quite a bit of change and development since Danny White took over back in 2021 — add another one to the list today. The University announced a new deal with Pilot to “preserve” the Neyland Stadium name over at least the next 20 years.
The unique deal will not change the name of the stadium.
The new official verbiage reads like this: Neyland Stadium. Home of the Vols. Proudly preserved by Pilot.
Preserving Neyland Stadium’s name and legacy for decades to come.
A first-of-its-kind partnership between Tennessee Athletics and @PilotFlyingJ secures the future of the iconic Neyland Stadium as the crown jewel of America’s College Sports City.
— Tennessee Athletics (@Vol_Sports) August 13, 2024
“As we navigate the changing landscape of college athletics, we are dedicated to building the best athletics department in the country,” said Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics Danny White. “Because we were committed to preserving the name of Neyland Stadium, finding a partner who shared this vision was essential. With deep roots here in Knoxville, Pilot recognizes the significance of Neyland and the importance of tradition to our fans and the university. Our focus continues to preserve and honor our storied past while modernizing to ensure we lead the way in college sports.”
“Neyland Stadium is one of the most iconic sporting venues in the world and UT is a significant part of making Knoxville a special place that Pilot is proud to call home,” said Pilot CEO Adam Wright. “Through this partnership, we will preserve the legacy of Neyland while also investing in its future to create exceptional experiences for generations to come. We look forward to seeing you out here as we cheer on the Vols in Neyland.”
“Home of the Vols” signage was added to the outside of the press box last week. Pilot’s logos will now appear on each side of the field, as you can see below.
Here’s the white pilot logo on the turf. pic.twitter.com/EnUjxYT9K0
— Brent Hubbs (@Brent_Hubbs) August 13, 2024
Pilot now becomes the official presenting partner of the Neyland Stadium renovation project, which will continue for the next few years. Future projects will focus on widening the south concourses, additional concessions and restrooms and wider entry ways. Pilot, now with this expanded deal, will obviously help fund the operation.
Obviously some of you will have strong opinions here. This pretty clearly isn’t the same deal as handing over the naming rights to Thompson-Boling to Food City, which was another deal that White made happen. Keeping Neyland in the name was paramount to both parties involved, and they’ve done that. The only true change you’re going to see is additional Pilot logos — two of which will be on the field.
The new look will debut on August 31st as Tennessee opens with Chattanooga.