A digital rendering of what the arena will look like once the new signage is up in September (Credit: Comcast Spectacor)
Get ready to go to the X. Or the XM. Or the XMA.
Whatever catches on as the new nickname, Philadelphia’s iconic sports and entertainment venue is set to undergo a significant transformation.
Starting September 1, the Wells Fargo Center will be renamed the Xfinity Mobile Arena, marking a new chapter in the arena's storied history.
The rebranding follows Wells Fargo's decision not to renew its naming rights agreement, which expires in August 2025.
Comcast Spectacor, the arena's owner and operator, seized the opportunity to align the venue more closely with its telecommunications brand, Xfinity Mobile. This move not only reinforces Comcast's presence in Philadelphia but also integrates its services more deeply into the fan experience.
“This arena is an anchor in the South Philadelphia Sports Complex and broader region,” said Dan Hilferty, Chairman & CEO of Comcast Spectacor said in a statement. “As we complete our historic relationship with Wells Fargo, we wanted to ensure that our new partner matched our enthusiasm for delivering world-class service to our fans and guests. We are committed to continuing investing in our venue to ensure we’re at the forefront of technology, innovation, and cutting-edge fan experiences. We couldn’t be more excited that Xfinity Mobile’s brand will become the centerpiece for sports and entertainment in Philadelphia.”
The new name will be effective through the 2030-31 NBA and NHL seasons. At that time, an new arena is expected to be erected in the sports complex for both the Flyers and Sixers to play.
Harris Blitzer Sports and Entertainment (HBSE), the owner of the 76ers, jointly made the announcement with Comcast Spectacor.
“Alongside our partners at Comcast and Comcast Spectacor, we have a shared vision of strengthening the home court advantage in South Philadelphia, and this announcement is another step in an exciting new chapter together,” said Tad Brown, CEO of the Philadelphia 76ers and HBSE. “Xfinity Mobile Arena will offer fans enhanced connectivity and high-speed capabilities to maximize their in-arena experience. By focusing on new and emerging technology, Xfinity Mobile Arena will allow fans to create incredible memories at games, concerts and live events in the future.”
The arena, which opened in 1996, has been known by several names over the years, including CoreStates Center, First Union Center, and Wachovia Center, before adopting the Wells Fargo Center moniker in 2010.
Throughout its history, the venue has hosted countless memorable events, from NBA and NHL games to concerts and political conventions.
The transition to Xfinity Mobile Arena is more than a name change; it's part of a broader initiative to enhance the arena's technological capabilities.
Comcast plans to introduce advanced connectivity features, ensuring fans have access to high-speed internet and seamless mobile services during events. This upgrade aims to elevate the overall spectator experience, making the arena a state-of-the-art facility for sports and entertainment.
