Comerica Park, the home stadium of the Detroit Tigers since 2000, is set to undergo a name change following a significant acquisition. Fifth Third Bancorp has announced its intention to acquire Comerica Bank for $10.9 billion. This deal will likely lead to the renaming of Comerica Park after the conclusion of the 2026 Major League Baseball season.
Upcoming Renaming of Comerica Park
David Girodat, the Michigan regional president of Fifth Third, emphasized the importance of the ballpark to the city. He stated, “It’s an iconic asset in the city of Detroit.” Although there are currently no plans to change the stadium’s name for the 2026 season, a rebranding effort is anticipated thereafter.
Collaboration on Rebranding
Fifth Third Bank plans to collaborate with the Ilitch family, owners of the Tigers, on the transition. The bank also confirmed that it will continue its sponsorship of various sports properties as the merger progresses. Representatives from Ilitch Sports & Entertainment have not provided additional comments at this time.
Background on Naming Rights
Comerica Bank has held the naming rights to the stadium since its inception in 2000. The original agreement included a 30-year, $66 million deal that extended through 2029, with a subsequent extension in 2018 that pushed the agreement to 2034. Prior to the 2025 season, noticeable branding changes were made, including the replacement of “Tigers” with Comerica’s name on the scoreboard and behind home plate.
Significance of the Acquisition
The acquisition will position Fifth Third Bancorp as the ninth-largest bank in the United States. This change in leadership comes with a historical commitment to the local community. Both Fifth Third and Comerica have expressed their intent to honor the legacy of their respective institutions during this transition.
Previous Naming Agreements
It is common for naming agreements to include provisions that transfer naming rights to the acquiring company. According to Erik Gordon, a law and business professor at the University of Michigan, these agreements typically shift the naming rights to the new owner at their expense.
Fifth Third’s Baseball Community Involvement
- Fifth Third Field serves as the home for the Toledo Mud Hens, the Tigers’ Triple-A affiliate.
- Previously, Fifth Third Ballpark was home to the West Michigan Whitecaps, another affiliate.
Fifth Third Bank and Comerica have reiterated their commitment to serving Detroit and enhancing community partnerships, as they prepare for this significant change.
