A New Jersey soccer landmark rebrands as Sports Illustrated Stadium after fifteen years
In short: Originally opened in 2010 as Red Bull Arena, this Harrison, New Jersey venue has been renamed Sports Illustrated Stadium. The change follows a 13-year partnership with Sports Illustrated Tickets. Beyond the new name, the stadium remains a premier soccer-specific facility, known for its unique roof and deep local roots.
Located in Harrison’s Riverbend District, the stadium sits on the Passaic River, roughly 7 miles from Lower Manhattan. Its design features a massive PTFE fiberglass roof canopy covering all 25,000 seats, which is the largest of its kind in Major League Soccer. The structure was engineered to amplify crowd noise, reflecting it back onto the pitch to create a high-energy atmosphere for the New York Red Bulls and Gotham FC.
The site’s selection was heavily influenced by the region's long history as a soccer hub, often called the Cradle of American Soccer. The area has hosted significant matches since the late 19th century, including the first international game outside the United Kingdom in 1885. Modern construction faced numerous hurdles, including environmental cleanup, ownership shifts from AEG to Red Bull GmbH, and a protracted legal battle over property taxes that was eventually settled in 2016.
The facility has evolved significantly since its 2010 debut. Upgrades include a sensory room for individuals with autism, a safe-standing section for supporters, and advanced LED lighting that reduces energy use by 20%. The stadium has hosted major events, from the 2011 MLS All-Star Game to international friendlies where records were broken, such as Abby Wambach’s historic 159th international goal in 2013. The new branding agreement, finalized in late 2024, marks a fresh chapter for the venue, though it remains separate from the magazine's news operations.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Sports Illustrated Stadium
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