SAINT PAUL, Minn. – In a significant move for Minnesota’s sports and entertainment landscape, Minnesota Sports & Entertainment (MSE) and Grand Casino Mille Lacs and Grand Casino Hinckley, operated by the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe, have announced a 14-year naming rights partnership. Starting September 3, 2025, the Xcel Energy Center, home to the NHL’s Minnesota Wild and over 150 annual events, will be renamed Grand Casino Arena.
The announcement marks a new chapter for the venue, which has been a cornerstone of downtown Saint Paul’s entertainment district. Craig Leipold, 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. The Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe has been a strong supporter of and investor in this city. We are thrilled for their partnership and support of the arena.”
Strategic Partnership with Tribal Enterprises
Ronda Weizenegger, Chief Executive Officer of Grand Casino, emphasized the broader implications of the partnership, noting that it represents more than just a name change.
“Grand Casino Arena represents the strength of tribal enterprise, and our ongoing investment in Minnesota’s future. We’re proud to partner with the Minnesota Wild to bring this vision to life,”
she said, acknowledging the pivotal role of Ted Johnson from Norden Strategies in facilitating the agreement.
Jeff LaFrance, Head of Marketing for Grand Casino, highlighted the potential for fan engagement and brand storytelling, stating,
“This partnership is a dream – 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.”
The rebranding will include comprehensive signage changes both inside and outside the arena, scheduled for completion before the 2025-26 NHL season.
A Legacy of Excellence at Xcel Energy Center
The Xcel Energy Center, a multi-purpose venue, has been a hub of activity since it opened on September 29, 2000. It has hosted an array of events, from Minnesota Wild games to concerts by iconic performers like Taylor Swift and Prince. The venue’s history is rich with notable events, including the 2008 Republican National Convention and multiple NCAA Men’s Frozen Four tournaments.
Over the years, the arena has welcomed more than 33.5 million fans, becoming a landmark in Saint Paul. The venue is also recognized for its sustainability efforts, holding certifications from LEED, EIC/SES, and Green Globes, making it a leader in environmentally friendly practices.
Looking Forward: The Future of Grand Casino Arena
The transition to Grand Casino Arena is expected to invigorate the downtown area, aligning with the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe’s commitment to economic development and cultural connection. The partnership also underscores the growing influence of tribal enterprises in regional business landscapes.
As the Minnesota Wild prepares for this transition, they continue to strengthen ties with community partners. In April 2025, the team announced a multi-year partnership with Xcel Energy to maintain its role as a major community and business partner, even as the naming rights change hands.
With the new partnership, fans and visitors can anticipate enhanced experiences at Grand Casino Arena, from digital activations to in-arena surprises, promising a vibrant future for the venue and its patrons.
The Minnesota Wild and MSE, through this strategic alliance, aim to continue their legacy of excellence while embracing new opportunities for growth and engagement in the heart of Minnesota.
