SAINT PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota Sports & Entertainment (MSE), the operator of Xcel Energy Center, has announced a landmark 14-year naming rights partnership with Grand Casino Mille Lacs and Grand Casino Hinckley, owned by the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe. Starting September 3, 2025, the iconic venue in downtown Saint Paul, home to the Minnesota Wild and over 150 annual events, will be rebranded as Grand Casino Arena.
Craig Leipold, the majority owner and principal investor in MSE, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “Grand Casino Arena will serve as the anchor of a dynamic entertainment district that transforms downtown Saint Paul.” Leipold highlighted the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe’s longstanding support and investment in the city, emphasizing the mutual benefits of the collaboration.
Strategic Vision and Cultural Impact
Ronda Weizenegger, CEO of Grand Casino, underscored the broader implications of the naming rights deal, describing it as a strategic move that aligns with the company’s future direction. “This is more than a name change – it’s a signal of where we’re headed as a business,” she remarked. Weizenegger emphasized that the partnership underscores the strength of tribal enterprise and its commitment to Minnesota’s future.
Jeff LaFrance, Head of Marketing for Grand Casino, elaborated on the marketing opportunities the partnership presents. “Grand Casino Arena gives us an incredible platform to engage fans, tell our story in bold new ways, and bring the Grand Casino experience to downtown Saint Paul,” he said, hinting at innovative digital activations and in-arena surprises that fans can anticipate.
Transitioning from Xcel Energy Center
The transition from Xcel Energy Center to Grand Casino Arena marks the conclusion of a successful 25-year partnership with Xcel Energy. The Minnesota Wild announced earlier this year a new multi-year collaboration with Xcel Energy, ensuring the company remains a major community and business partner beyond the naming rights.
Before the start of the 2025-26 NHL regular season, all signage, including the center ice insignia, will be updated to reflect the new Grand Casino Arena branding. The Minnesota Wild acknowledged the role of OVG Global Partnerships in facilitating this significant agreement.
A Legacy of Entertainment and Sustainability
Since its opening on September 29, 2000, Xcel Energy Center has been a hub of entertainment, hosting over 1.7 million visitors annually. The venue has welcomed a diverse array of events, from NHL games to concerts by legendary artists such as Taylor Swift and Prince, as well as major sporting events like the NCAA Men’s Frozen Four and the U.S. Figure Skating Championships.
Beyond entertainment, the venue is renowned for its sustainability efforts. It is part of a complex that includes the Saint Paul RiverCentre, known for its commitment to environmental practices. The complex is uniquely certified by LEED (Gold), EIC/SES (Gold), and Green Globes, making it a leader in sustainable venue management.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Grand Casino Arena
The renaming to Grand Casino Arena is not just a change in signage but a reflection of a broader vision for the future. The partnership is expected to enhance the cultural and economic landscape of downtown Saint Paul, fostering new opportunities for community engagement and economic growth.
As the arena prepares for its transformation, stakeholders are optimistic about the potential for Grand Casino Arena to become a central figure in Minnesota’s entertainment scene. The collaboration between MSE and Grand Casino is poised to bring innovative experiences to fans and visitors, reinforcing the venue’s status as a premier destination.
With the backing of the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe, Grand Casino Arena is set to become a symbol of cultural pride and economic vitality, continuing to attract millions of visitors and contributing to the vibrant community of Saint Paul.
