International recording artist Pitbull has officially acquired the naming rights to Florida International Universityโs (FIU) football stadium, now known as Pitbull Stadium. This announcement came on Tuesday, following the FIU board of trustees’ approval of a five-year agreement.
Under the terms of the deal, Pitbull, whose real name is Armando Christian Perez and who is famously known as “Mr. 305” in homage to Miami’s area code, will pay FIU $1.2 million annually for five years. A proud alumnus of Miami Coral Park High School, Pitbull sees this venture as a tribute to his roots.
“For me, it boils down to Miami’s spirit. We are always the underdogs, no matter how high we rise,” Pitbull remarked. “FIU embodies that same spiritโalways fighting to be seen and recognized, whether in education, business, or sports. This idea came about just like any 305 idea wouldโagainst all odds. And just like we say in Miami, we took it to the house.”
FIU now holds the distinction of being the first university to name an athletics facility after a musician. “What weโre doing here is groundbreaking. Weโre making history,” Pitbull said. “Soon, every university will want to follow suit. But our difference lies in authenticity; weโre doing this from the heart, for our community. Iโm from the 305, from the bottom. This is my backyard.”
The deal also includes an option for Pitbull to extend the agreement for another five years. According to FIU board documents, Pitbull will compose an anthem for FIU, promote the school on social media twelve times a year, and attend one athletic fundraising event annually. Additionally, he will have access to the stadium for ten days each year, and his vodka brand will be the preferred beverage sold at the venue. Other perks include two reserved suites for all home football games.
With a seating capacity of 20,000, FIU Stadium opened in 1995. Athletic Director Scott Carr mentioned that Pitbull would also contribute to FIUโs name, image, and likeness (NIL) initiatives. “This is a historic day for FIU athletics, partnering with a world-renowned artist who values relationships and his community,” Carr said. “Armandoโs financial support is transformative, but his ability to amplify FIU’s voice is invaluable for growing our brand.”
FIU’s football program, which began in 2002, joined the FBS in 2004. Despite playing in five bowl games, the Panthers have not had a winning season since 2018 and are coming off consecutive 4-8 seasons under Coach Mike MacIntyre. The Panthers will kick off their first game in Pitbull Stadium against Central Michigan on September 7.
