Bank of America Stadium – stadium description

Where does Bank of America Stadium get its name from?

The name Bank of America Stadium comes from a sponsorship agreement with one of the largest financial institutions in the world – Bank of America, whose headquarters is located in Charlotte, North Carolina. This local connection plays an important role in the identity of the stadium, as the title partner is also one of the largest employers and most recognizable economic symbols of the Carolinas region.

Originally, when the stadium opened in 1996 as the home of the Carolina Panthers in the NFL, it bore the name Carolinas Stadium. It was a temporary name emphasizing the regional character of the franchise, which represents both North Carolina and South Carolina. Later in 1996 it was renamed Ericsson Stadium following a ten-year naming rights deal with Ericsson, a global telecommunications company.

The current name – Bank of America Stadium – has been in use since September 2004, when Bank of America purchased the naming rights. The agreement was signed for ten years with an option to extend, and according to industry estimates it was valued at around 140 million dollars, although specific terms were not publicly disclosed. Since then, the stadium has become one of the most recognizable venues in the NFL, and its name is firmly established in media coverage, league materials, and the marketing identity of the club.

The naming rights are part of Bank of America’s long-term strategy of supporting American sports. The company has been a partner of organizations in the NFL, MLB, NHL and other sports initiatives across the United States. The partnership strengthened the financial stability of the stadium while giving the bank massive exposure, especially after the venue became home not only to American football, but also to Major League Soccer matches following the arrival of Charlotte FC in 2022.

Where is Bank of America Stadium located?

Bank of America Stadium is located in Charlotte, the largest city in the state of North Carolina in the United States. The facility is situated in the central part of the city, in the Uptown Charlotte district, which serves as the business and cultural hub of the region. The choice of this location was strategic, emphasizing the regional importance of the Carolina Panthers and connecting the stadium with the rapidly growing metropolis of the southeastern United States.

The stadium is located at 800 South Mint Street, on a site covering approximately 13 hectares (33 acres). To the east, it borders the skyline of Charlotte’s high-rise buildings, which makes its distinct silhouette stand out within the urban landscape. The immediate vicinity of the stadium includes numerous corporate headquarters, financial institutions, and cultural facilities, making it a prominent and integral element of the city’s urban fabric.

Thanks to its central location, Bank of America Stadium is not only a sports venue but also a significant part of Charlotte’s identity. Its proximity to business districts and residential areas makes it an active component of city life, symbolically highlighting Charlotte’s economic and sporting character as one of the leading financial centres in the United States, second only to New York.

What is the seating capacity of Bank of America Stadium?

The seating capacity of Bank of America Stadium is currently 74,867. This official figure, provided by the Carolina Panthers and the NFL, includes all permanent seats available during American football games. The stadium falls into the medium-to-large size category within the NFL, placing it near the middle of the league in terms of capacity.

The capacity has changed slightly over the years due to upgrades and renovations. When the stadium opened in 1996, it could accommodate approximately 72,685 spectators. Later, expansions to hospitality areas and premium seating caused the capacity to increase to its current figure. During selected events such as concerts or Major League Soccer matches hosted by Charlotte FC, the seating configuration can be adjusted depending on stage layout or pitch setup.

Bank of America Stadium features an all-seater bowl with a traditional two-tier design and an additional level of corporate suites. The venue includes over 150 luxury skyboxes and a large premium seating zone, which significantly influences the overall stadium capacity. Its size makes it one of the largest sports venues in the Carolinas and one of the best-known stadiums on the East Coast of the United States.

When was Bank of America Stadium opened?

Bank of America Stadium was officially opened on September 3, 1996. The inauguration marked a major milestone in the sporting history of the Carolinas, as the stadium was built specifically to serve as the home of the Carolina Panthers, who had joined the NFL a year earlier as an expansion franchise. The opening followed more than two years of construction that began in 1994.

The first NFL game at the stadium took place shortly after the opening, during the preseason, when the Panthers faced the Chicago Bears. The opening ceremony highlighted the regional significance of the project, which was funded by a combination of private investment and community support from both North and South Carolina. Initially known as Carolinas Stadium, it became a catalyst for the economic and sports development of Charlotte in the late 1990s.

Since its opening, the stadium has been in continuous use, hosting not only NFL games but also college football fixtures, international soccer matches, concerts, and large public events. Although it has undergone multiple upgrades, it has preserved its original function and remains one of the most recognizable sporting venues on the East Coast.

Who uses Bank of America Stadium on a daily basis?

The primary tenant of Bank of America Stadium is the Carolina Panthers, a National Football League (NFL) franchise. The team has played all of its home games at the stadium since it opened in 1996. The venue also houses the Panthers’ administrative offices, player facilities, and operational headquarters, making it the central base of the organization throughout the season and during team preparations.

The second permanent tenant is Charlotte FC, a Major League Soccer (MLS) club that began playing at the stadium in 2022. Charlotte FC became the 28th franchise in the league and selected Bank of America Stadium as its home ground. To accommodate professional soccer, the venue was equipped with a specialized hybrid turf system and adapted to allow smooth transition between American football and soccer configurations. Matches of Charlotte FC have quickly gained popularity, with the club setting the single-match attendance record in MLS history during its debut home game.

In addition to its main tenants, the stadium is regularly used for college football events. It annually hosts the Duke’s Mayo Bowl and has frequently served as the venue for the ACC Championship Game. The stadium is also available for special sports events and community functions, but Carolina Panthers and Charlotte FC remain its principal users.

What events have taken place at Bank of America Stadium?

Since its opening, Bank of America Stadium has hosted a wide range of major sporting events. Most prominently, it serves as the home field of the Carolina Panthers in the NFL, hosting both regular-season and playoff games. One of the most significant moments in stadium history was the NFC Championship Game in January 2016, when the Panthers secured their place in Super Bowl 50.

The stadium also has a strong association with college football. It is the long-term host of the Duke’s Mayo Bowl and has staged numerous editions of the ACC Championship Game. These high-profile events attract tens of thousands of fans from across the southeastern United States.

Soccer has played an increasingly important role at Bank of America Stadium, especially following the arrival of Charlotte FC in Major League Soccer in 2022. In addition to MLS fixtures, the stadium has staged international matches and major tournaments, including the CONCACAF Gold Cup and the International Champions Cup, featuring top European teams such as Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund. In 2024, it hosted matches of the Copa América, and in 2025 it became one of the venues of the FIFA Club World Cup.

Thanks to its multi-purpose nature, the stadium has also hosted special sporting exhibitions, youth tournaments, charity matches and unique football and soccer showcase events. It is one of the most active and significant sports venues in the southeastern United States.

What does the architecture of Bank of America Stadium look like?

Bank of America Stadium is designed in a classic, monumental architectural style typical of American stadiums built in the 1990s. The structure is massive and symmetrical, giving it a distinctive monumental appearance influenced by neoclassical and corporate architecture trends of that era. The exterior façades are dominated by architectural concrete and dark tinted glass, which give the stadium an elegant and formal aesthetic fitting for the Uptown Charlotte cityscape.

The main entrances are decorated with granite façades, arches and corner towers, which have become iconic features of the stadium. One of the most recognizable architectural elements are the two bronze panther statues at the North Gate, symbolizing the Carolina Panthers. These sculptures, placed above the main entrance in dynamic poses, emphasize the club identity and regional character of the stadium.

Inside, the venue consists of a two-tier seating bowl with an intermediate level of corporate suites. The elliptical arrangement of the stands provides excellent sightlines from all seating areas. Over time, architectural updates have included the installation of larger LED screens, new lighting systems and upgrades to hospitality interiors, but the stadium has retained its original character. Its balance between architectural mass and functional simplicity makes it one of the most distinctive venues in the NFL.

What amenities and technological features does Bank of America Stadium offer?

Bank of America Stadium has been developed as a modern sports venue with extensive hospitality and service infrastructure. One of its key features is its premium seating offering, which includes more than 150 private suites, multiple skyboxes, exclusive club lounges, and dedicated premium seating levels such as the Club Level and Silver Club. The stadium also features corporate spaces and conference areas, making it a year-round business venue.

The stadium has undergone significant technological upgrades in recent years. Two massive high-definition video boards were installed at both ends of the stadium, each more than 60 meters wide. These are complemented by modern LED ribbon displays and an advanced sound system. The venue also offers extensive connectivity, including thousands of Wi-Fi access points and a Distributed Antenna System (DAS) to ensure reliable mobile network coverage during large events.

In 2021, the playing surface was upgraded to a hybrid turf system to support both American football and soccer. The stadium also features interactive fan zones, digital information points, numerous concession stands and mobile ticketing systems. These upgrades ensure that the stadium meets the standards required to host major NFL and MLS games as well as international tournaments.

How can you get to Bank of America Stadium and what transport options are available?

Bank of America Stadium is located in central Charlotte and is easily accessible by public and private transport. The most convenient public transport option is the LYNX Blue Line light rail, which has a station within walking distance of the stadium. The nearest stop, Brooklyn Village Station, provides fast access from various parts of the city and surrounding areas.

In addition to the light rail, the stadium is served by bus lines operated by the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS). Several routes stop near the stadium, particularly along South Mint Street, West 4th Street and South College Street, making the venue well connected with other districts of Charlotte. On game days additional services are often provided to support increased traffic.

The stadium is also easily accessible by car. It is located close to the I-77 and I-85 interstate highways. Numerous public and private parking areas are available around the stadium, including spaces reserved for people with disabilities. Taxis and ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft have designated pick-up and drop-off zones near the venue. Thanks to its central location, Bank of America Stadium is also within walking distance of many hotels, offices, restaurants and entertainment spots in Uptown Charlotte.

What sporting events are held at Bank of America Stadium?

Bank of America Stadium is primarily a venue for top-level American football. Since its opening in 1996, it has been the home of the Carolina Panthers of the National Football League (NFL), hosting all of the team’s home games, including postseason fixtures such as Division Round games and the NFC Championship. The stadium frequently hosts nationally televised games and remains one of the key NFL venues on the East Coast.

The stadium also plays an important role in college football. It hosts the annual Duke’s Mayo Bowl and has frequently staged the ACC Championship Game, one of the most prominent conference title games in the NCAA football calendar. These events attract tens of thousands of fans every year and contribute to the stadium’s reputation as a major college football venue.

Since 2022, the stadium has also hosted top-level soccer. Charlotte FC plays its home matches here in Major League Soccer (MLS). The stadium has also hosted international fixtures, including matches in the CONCACAF Gold Cup and friendlies featuring major European clubs as part of the International Champions Cup. In 2025, it also became a venue for the FIFA Club World Cup.

From time to time, special sporting events are held at the stadium, including showcase matches, youth tournaments and charity sports events. Its multi-purpose nature makes it a highly active stadium throughout the sporting calendar.

Are concerts or cultural events held at Bank of America Stadium?

Bank of America Stadium also hosts concerts and major cultural events. Although it was originally designed as an American football stadium, it has evolved into one of the largest outdoor entertainment venues in the Carolinas. The first concerts took place in the late 1990s, including a performance by The Rolling Stones in 1997, marking the beginning of the stadium’s role as a concert venue.

Today, the stadium regularly hosts major world concert tours. Artists such as Beyoncé, Elton John, Billy Joel, Garth Brooks and Morgan Wallen have performed here, drawing tens of thousands of spectators. Due to increasing demand for large outdoor events in the Charlotte region, the stadium has become one of the most important music venues in North Carolina.

In addition to concerts, the stadium is used for cultural and community events such as fundraisers, public ceremonies and special entertainment shows. Notably, the stadium has also been adapted for non-traditional events, such as being temporarily converted into a baseball field for an exhibition game featuring the Savannah Bananas. This versatility demonstrates its importance not only as a sports venue, but also as a cultural landmark in the Carolinas.

What attendance records have been set at Bank of America Stadium?

Bank of America Stadium has witnessed numerous record-breaking attendances over the years in both American football and soccer. The highest attendance for an NFL game at the stadium was recorded on September 9, 2018, when the Carolina Panthers faced the Dallas Cowboys in front of 74,532 spectators. This remains the all-time attendance record for an American football game at the venue.

An equally impressive record was set in soccer. On March 5, 2022, during Charlotte FC’s inaugural home match in Major League Soccer against LA Galaxy, 74,479 spectators filled the stadium. This match set a new MLS single-game attendance record and highlighted the rapid rise in popularity of soccer in North Carolina.

The stadium has also recorded high attendance figures during major international tournaments and friendly matches. Games in the CONCACAF Gold Cup and the International Champions Cup often came close to full capacity. College football events such as the ACC Championship Game and the Duke’s Mayo Bowl also attract strong crowds every year. Thanks to these high-profile events, Bank of America Stadium is consistently among the best-attended venues on the East Coast of the United States.

Has Bank of America Stadium undergone renovations or expansions?

Bank of America Stadium has undergone several phases of renovation since its opening in 1996, although these changes were primarily upgrades rather than full structural expansions. The stadium has retained its original seating bowl and external appearance, but numerous improvements have been made to modernize the venue and enhance the experience for fans and teams.

The first major renovations began in 2007 with updates to stadium infrastructure and back-of-house areas. More substantial upgrades took place between 2014 and 2015, including refreshed public concourses, redesigned entrances and enhancements to stadium aesthetics. These works modernized the appearance of the stadium without altering its original architectural character.

Further renovations took place between 2017 and 2019, focusing on interior improvements and comfort. Premium seating areas and VIP zones were renovated, circulation areas were refreshed and enhancements were made to operational facilities. These upgrades ensured that the stadium remained competitive with other modern NFL venues.

The latest renovation phase occurred in 2021 to prepare the stadium for hosting Major League Soccer matches. Work included adjustments to locker rooms and team facilities, upgrades to player tunnels and operational areas, and adaptations for dual use by both football and soccer teams. These renovations allowed the stadium to expand its role as a multi-sport venue.

What are the future plans for Bank of America Stadium?

The future of Bank of America Stadium is tied to an extensive modernization program designed to prolong its lifespan and adapt it to modern standards of sports infrastructure. According to official announcements from Tepper Sports & Entertainment, a large-scale renovation project worth approximately 800 million dollars is planned. Rather than replacing the stadium entirely, the aim is to carry out comprehensive upgrades so that it can continue serving the Carolina Panthers and Charlotte FC for decades to come.

The modernization plans include the replacement of all seating in the stadium bowl, redevelopment of main entrances, refreshment of the façade and extensive upgrades to interior areas such as concourses and concession zones. New spectator areas will be added, including open terraces, social spaces and expanded hospitality zones. The project also aims to improve comfort for fans through enhancements to climate control, restrooms and circulation.

The stadium surroundings will also be redeveloped, with new public spaces, plazas and meeting areas planned around the venue. Upgrades to athlete and media facilities are included in the project, allowing the stadium to continue hosting major international events. Renovations will be carried out in phases to ensure the stadium remains operational during NFL and MLS seasons.

At the same time, discussions continue about potential long-term options, including the possibility of constructing a completely new stadium in the distant future. For now, however, the priority is to renovate the existing facility and maintain its position as one of the most important sports and event venues in Charlotte and the Carolinas.