Bank of America Stadium
| Company type | Stadium |
|---|---|
| Industry | Sports venue |
| Founded | 1996 |
| Headquarters | Charlotte, North Carolina , United States |
Area served | Charlotte, North Carolina, USA |
| Products | Stadium hosting NFL and MLS games, college football bowl games and championships |
Bank of America Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium with a seating capacity of 74,867, situated in Uptown Charlotte, North Carolina, USA. It functions as both the home venue and headquarters for the Carolina Panthers of the National Football League (NFL) and Charlotte FC of Major League Soccer (MLS). The stadium originally opened in 1996 under the name Ericsson Stadium, named after the Swedish telecommunications firm LM Ericsson, which initially held the naming rights. In 2004, the Charlotte-based financial institution Bank of America secured naming rights through a 20- to 25-year contract valued at $140 million.[1] Former Panthers president Danny Morrison characterized it as a "classic American stadium," highlighting its bowl-shaped design and amenities.[2]
In addition to serving as the home field for the Panthers and CLTFC, this stadium annually hosts the Duke's Mayo Bowl, which features teams from the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) competing against squads from either the Southeastern Conference (SEC) or the Big Ten Conference. It was initially designated to host the ACC Championship Game through at least 2019; after being relocated in 2016, the event returned in 2017. On May 19, 2022, the ACC announced that Bank of America Stadium will remain the site for its championship games through at least the 2030 season.[3] The largest recorded attendance for a football game was 74,532 on September 9, 2018, when the Panthers defeated the Dallas Cowboys by a score of 16–8.[4]
Sites considered for selection
Before deciding on its current location in Charlotte center city, the Panthers organization reviewed multiple potential sites. One notable option included part of the historic Good Samaritan Hospital grounds. Charlotte historian Michael Moore pointed out that this area was where the city’s first documented lynching occurred in 1913.
Other possible locations evaluated were near NASCAR’s Charlotte Motor Speedway, as well as close to the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in northeastern Mecklenburg County. Additional sites under consideration included an area near the junction of I-85 and US 74 in western Gaston County. Another alternative was a site adjacent to Carowinds amusement park, with plans placing the 50-yard line directly on the border between North Carolina and South Carolina.
Naming rights
While sometimes referred to as Carolinas Stadium during events such as FIFA matches, the venue officially opened on August 3, 1996, as Ericsson Stadium, following a naming rights agreement with Swedish telecommunications company LM Ericsson valued at $25 million over ten years. In 2004, Bank of America acquired these rights for a two-decade term, resulting in its current designation. Supporters commonly call it "BOA," "The Bank," or "PoundTown".
Stadium features
Bank of America Stadium showcases a design that integrates the team's colors—black, process blue, and silver—highlighted by three prominent entrances and arches shaped like a football half. The stadium is encircled by extensive greenery, and its architectural style has drawn comparisons to landmarks such as the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum and Soldier Field. Its exterior is often described as fortress-like in appearance.
Each main entrance is guarded by a pair of large bronze panther sculptures titled "Indomitable Spirit," a distinctive feature within the NFL. Created in 1996, these six statues portray fierce panthers with green eyes and represent the largest commissioned bronze sculptures in the United States. The bases of these statues are inscribed with the names of the original PSL owners.
Atop the primary entrances are six light domes that initially emitted process blue illumination. Upgraded in 2014 with LED lighting technology, these domes now offer more dynamic lighting effects.
Life-sized bronze statues honoring Panthers Hall of Honor inductees—former executive Mike McCormack and linebacker/coach Sam Mills—stand outside the stadium. Prior to renovations in 2014, inductee names were displayed near the upper ribbon board; these were subsequently relocated behind seating areas and replaced by signage in 2019. Additionally, three marble plaques featuring quotes from founder Jerry Richardson were placed near entrances in 2014 but were later moved to concourse entrances and engraved benches due to renovation work.
In 2016, a nearly tall statue of Jerry Richardson was unveiled at the stadium's north gate in celebration of his 80th birthday. Positioned alongside two panthers resembling the "Indomitable Spirit" sculptures, it represented his enduring legacy. However, this statue was removed in June 2020 over safety concerns amid ongoing protests.
Carolina Panthers
Since 1996, Bank of America Stadium has been home to every Panthers game, including seven postseason contests. Beginning in 2002, the team achieved more than 150 consecutive sellouts at this venue.
Inaugural season
During its first season while the stadium was under construction, the Panthers played at Clemson University's Memorial Stadium. The stadium hosted its inaugural professional game on August 3, 1996, when Carolina defeated the Chicago Bears 30–12 in a preseason match. The first regular season game took place on September 1, 1996, against division foe Atlanta, with Carolina securing a 29–6 victory.
Playoff games
In their initial postseason appearance in 1996, Carolina triumphed over the reigning Super Bowl champions, the Dallas Cowboys, marking the stadium’s first playoff game win. They repeated this feat against Dallas during their journey to Super Bowl XXXVIII in 2004. The Panthers experienced their first home playoff defeat in 2009 versus the Arizona Cardinals, followed by another loss to the San Francisco 49ers in 2014. In 2016, Carolina advanced to their fourth NFC Championship Game by defeating the Seattle Seahawks, then hosted and won their second NFC Championship against the Cardinals—this being both the first NFC Championship held and won at Bank of America Stadium.
Notable weather events
As an open-air facility, Bank of America Stadium has faced significant weather challenges:
- In 2011, intense flooding occurred during a rainstorm that delivered over four inches of rain within an hour; this event was nicknamed the 11 Water Bowl by Charlotte Magazine. The Panthers emerged victorious with a score of 16–10.
- On December 24, 2022, kickoff temperatures marked the coldest home game ever recorded for the franchise.
- On June 28, 2025, a FIFA Club World Cup fixture between Benfica and Chelsea was temporarily halted due to incoming storms but resumed after a two-hour delay; Chelsea ultimately won 4-1 following extra time.
Influence on NFL stadiums
Constructed in the mid-1990s, this stadium was a trailblazer in implementing Personal Seat Licenses (PSLs), marking the first major U.S. facility predominantly financed through this method. This innovative funding approach gained favor among NFL owners and played a significant role in the Carolinas obtaining the league's first expansion franchise in nearly two decades.
The design of CenturyLink Field by the Seattle Seahawks drew inspiration from this venue. By 2013, a total of 25 new or refurbished stadiums had been completed following the debut of Bank of America Stadium.
Stadium upgrades
Although initially regarded as cutting-edge, the stadium underwent only minimal modifications until the 2013–14 offseason. A notable enhancement took place in 2007 when the original 1996 scoreboards were replaced with 31.5' x 77' Diamond Vision video displays, accompanied by the addition of four ribbon boards positioned along the field and corners.
Despite these improvements, by the early 2010s, the stadium was falling behind comparable venues due to lacking surround sound, smaller video screens, and substandard cellular connectivity. In 2013, the Panthers revamped their home locker room, increasing locker count from 66 to 74, updating interior decor, and adopting the team's refreshed logo.
In early 2013, a $250 million renovation proposal was introduced by the Panthers, featuring new scoreboards, escalators, and concourse upgrades, contingent upon funding approval from Charlotte city officials. After unsuccessful attempts to secure city and state funds, an $87.5 million agreement was ratified by Charlotte’s city council in April 2013, ensuring the Panthers' tenure through at least 2019. Renovations proceeded according to original plans but with a reduced budget.
2014
The Panthers launched significant stadium improvements in January 2014—the most extensive in nearly two decades—as part of a phased development strategy. Completed ahead of the 2014–2015 NFL season, enhancements included two high-definition video boards measuring 200' x 56', more than twice the size of their predecessors, and two Daktronics-manufactured 360° ribbon boards. These ribbon boards set a record as the tallest in the NFL at that time, while the video screens ranked among the league’s ten largest upon installation. Escalators were incorporated into the upper deck to facilitate fan movement, necessitating structural extensions that maintained the original exterior aesthetic. A new surround sound system was installed featuring perimeter speakers doubling as flagpoles. Additionally, four covered open-air "fan plazas" were created on the upper deck, complemented by LED-illuminated glass domes and updated external signage above main entrances.
2015
Ahead of the 2015 season, all 158 luxury suites underwent renovation, and a new exclusive club suite named "The 32 Club" was introduced at the 32-yard line. Subsequently, "The 51 Club," honoring former player and coach Sam Mills, was unveiled. These changes reduced luxury suite count to 153 but increased overall seating capacity. Moreover, two small ribbon boards were installed above each tunnel entrance for enhanced visibility from seating areas.
2016
The third phase focused on upgrading the upper-level concourse by adding buffet-style beverage stations and doubling available wi-fi access points. Updated signage reflecting current team branding was installed alongside improved concession facilities offering expanded drink selections. Security measures were advanced with nearly 100 full-body scanners replacing traditional pat-down procedures at main entrances and establishment of a new security office.
In addition, a 13-foot statue of Jerry Richardson, flanked by two life-sized panther sculptures, was erected as a tribute to then-owner Jerry Richardson. This statue was removed and placed in storage in June 2020 during the George Floyd protests.
2017
The fourth significant upgrade focused on the lower concourse, introducing updated signage, renovated concession areas, and enhanced televisions within the club sections. Banners celebrating Panthers history were installed throughout the concourse, and the seating capacity experienced a modest increase due to improvements in the club level. Additionally, a new playing field along with an advanced drainage system was implemented.
Additional renovations
In 2019, signage for Lowe's was placed at the East Gate accompanied by Panthers-themed posters. Sponsor logos replaced Panthers branding on the scoreboards, while members of the Hall of Honor received updated nameplates on the rear wall of the upper deck. The following year, nearly 1,000 seats located in the west end zone were removed to make way for 14 field-level "bunker suites," which were completed prior to the start of that season.
MLS renovation
Following Charlotte’s acquisition of its 30th Major League Soccer franchise, Charlotte FC, in 2019, Bank of America Stadium was designated as its home venue. Although the stadium already met standard soccer field dimensions, it required enhancements for regular soccer use. Renovations encompassed new locker room facilities, additional camera placements, a dedicated tunnel entrance, and a 200-foot curved video display installed outside the east gate, along with improvements to the lower concourse. All upgrades were finalized before Charlotte FC’s debut season in 2022. In March 2021, before the NFL season commenced, the original Bermuda grass playing surface was replaced with FieldTurf.
College football
While Bank of America Stadium is not the official home field for any college football program, it has hosted numerous collegiate matchups since 1996 featuring teams from both North and South Carolina.
- The ACC Championship Game, held annually on the first Saturday in December between the top two ACC teams, took place at this stadium from 2010 through 2015. A six-year contract extension signed in 2014 extended hosting rights through 2019; however, the ACC withdrew in 2016 following North Carolina’s enactment of HB2 legislation. The championship returned to Charlotte after HB2 was repealed in 2017.
- Since 2002, Charlotte has been home to the Duke's Mayo Bowl (previously known as Continental Tire Bowl, Meineke Car Care Bowl, and Belk Bowl), which features ACC teams competing against opponents from either the SEC or Big Ten conferences.
- The Duke's Mayo Classic (formerly Belk Kickoff Game), established in 2015 as a high-profile season opener series, has showcased notable contests such as North Carolina versus South Carolina (2015 and 2019), NC State against South Carolina (2017), West Virginia facing Tennessee (2018), and Clemson hosting Georgia (2021).
- The stadium has served as a venue for several East Carolina Pirates football games including key victories over NC State (1996), West Virginia (1999), and Virginia Tech (2008), alongside defeats to ranked teams like South Carolina (2011).
- In 2006, Clemson played Temple in a non-conference matchup relocated to Charlotte for financial considerations; Clemson won decisively with a score of 63–9.
- Two games from the North Carolina-NC State football rivalry were held here in consecutive years—1998 and 1999—with North Carolina emerging victorious on both occasions.
- In 2022, North Carolina A&T Aggies football faced off against North Carolina Central Eagles football at this stadium.
- Another matchup between North Carolina and South Carolina is planned for 2023 at this location.
High school football
On May 6, 2020, it was revealed that Myers Park High School from Charlotte would compete against South Pointe High School based in Rock Hill, South Carolina, with the match originally set for September 5, 2020; nevertheless, this event was subsequently called off.
The stadium's inaugural high school football contest took place on August 19, 2023, featuring a matchup between North Carolina's Providence Day School and South Carolina's Northwestern High School from Rock Hill. Providence Day emerged victorious with a 42–35 scoreline in the first-ever Keep Pounding High School Classic.
Soccer
Although Bank of America Stadium was constructed to comply with soccer field specifications, it saw minimal soccer activity during its initial twenty years. The establishment of Charlotte FC has since transformed the venue into a regular host for Major League Soccer (MLS) and international soccer fixtures.
Charlotte FC
Charlotte was granted its 30th MLS franchise, Charlotte FC, which commenced play at Bank of America Stadium in 2022 after renovations were completed. The stadium’s first MLS-related event occurred on October 31, 2020, featuring academy matches between Charlotte FC and Atlanta United. When Charlotte FC held its home opener on March 5, 2022, it drew a crowd of 74,479 attendees, setting a new MLS record for attendance at a single standalone game. Typically, Charlotte FC games utilize only the lower bowl and club level sections of the stadium, limiting capacity to approximately 38,000 spectators.
Other soccer matches
Prior to Charlotte FC’s introduction, Bank of America Stadium hosted various soccer events including the NCAA Men’s Soccer Championship tournaments in 1999 and 2000. Starting in 2010, the venue began regularly accommodating soccer matches primarily involving international teams. Under a long-term agreement with Relevent Sports Group, the stadium annually hosts International Champions Cup friendlies that feature elite clubs from leagues such as the Premier League and Bundesliga along with several national teams.
International and club friendly matches
Concerts
For many years, concerts at the stadium were infrequent, with the majority of performances held at the Spectrum Center or other venues throughout Charlotte. Following David Tepper's 2018 acquisition of both the Panthers and the stadium, the frequency of concerts notably increased.
| width=12% style="text-align:center;Template:NFLPrimaryStyle;|Date | width=10% style="text-align:center;Template:NFLPrimaryStyle;|Performer(s) | width=10% style="text-align:center;Template:NFLPrimaryStyle;|Opening act(s) | width=16% style="text-align:center;Template:NFLPrimaryStyle;|Tour/Event | width=10% style="text-align:center;Template:NFLPrimaryStyle;|Attendance | width=10% style="text-align:center;Template:NFLPrimaryStyle;|Revenue | width=20% style="text-align:center;Template:NFLPrimaryStyle;|Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| October 10, 1997 | The Rolling Stones | Blues Traveler | Bridges to Babylon Tour | 54,436 / 54,436 | $3,126,945 | |
| June 24, 2012 | Kenny Chesney and Tim McGraw | Grace Potter and the Nocturnals Jake Owen |
Brothers of the Sun Tour | 44,482 / 47,835 | $3,404,455 | |
| September 30, 2021 | The Rolling Stones | Ghost Hounds | No Filter Tour | 42,577 / 42,577 | $9,074,182 | |
| April 23, 2022 | Billy Joel | — | Billy Joel in Concert | |||
| April 30, 2022 | Kenny Chesney | Dan + Shay Old Dominion Carly Pearce |
Here and Now Tour | |||
| June 28, 2022 | Mötley Crüe Def Leppard |
Poison Joan Jett and the Blackhearts |
The Stadium Tour | Originally scheduled for 2020 but postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic | ||
| July 15–16, 2022 | Garth Brooks | — | The Garth Brooks Stadium Tour | Featured a special guest appearance by Trisha Yearwood | ||
| September 1, 2022 | Red Hot Chili Peppers | The Strokes Thundercat |
Red Hot Chili Peppers 2022 Global Stadium Tour | 43,269 / 43,269 | $5,279,810 | |
| September 18, 2022 | Elton John | — | Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour | |||
| July 14–15, 2023 | Luke Combs | Gary Allan Turnpike Troubadours Brent Cobb Riley Green Lainey Wilson Flatland Cavalry |
Luke Combs World Tour | |||
| August 9, 2023 | Beyoncé | — | Renaissance World Tour | 53,612 / 53,612 | $12,227,012 | Set the record for highest-grossing boxscore in stadium history; first female and black artist to headline here. |
| April 27, 2024 | Kenny Chesney Zac Brown Band |
Megan Moroney Uncle Kracker |
Sun Goes Down 2024 Tour | |||
| June 1, 2024 | George Strait Chris Stapleton |
Little Big Town | ||||
| October 18–19, 2024 | Morgan Wallen | Lauren Watkins Larry Fleet Bailey Zimmerman |
One Night At A Time Tour | |||
| October 26, 2024 | Luke Combs Eric Church Billy Strings James Taylor Sheryl Crow Keith Urban Bailey Zimmerman Chase Rice Parmalee Scotty McCreery |
— | Concert for Carolina | 82,193 | Benefit event supporting recovery from Hurricane Helene damage | |
| May 3, 2025 | Kendrick Lamar SZA |
Grand National Tour | ||||
| May 13, 2025 | Shakira | Wyclef Jean D-Nice |
Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour | First Latin artist to perform at this venue. | ||
| May 31, 2025 | Metallica | Pantera Suicidal Tendencies |
M72 World Tour |
Other events
- In 1996, the stadium was the site of a four-day crusade led by Billy Graham.
- The final evening of the 2012 Democratic National Convention, where President Barack Obama was anticipated to give his acceptance address, was initially set for September 6, 2012, but was moved to the Spectrum Center due to forecasted thunderstorms.
- On May 4, 2019, the venue hosted the first Untappd Beer Festival. The follow-up event scheduled for May 16, 2020, was postponed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
- The stadium welcomed the 14th annual Beer, Bourbon and BBQ Festival on March 7, 2020.
- It functioned as a vaccination center for COVID-19 from January 29–31 and again from March 9–11, 2021.
- From March 25–28, 2021, Bank of America Stadium was the location for the Topgolf Live Stadium Series.
- The Savannah Bananas played at the stadium on June 6 and 7, 2025; both dates were sold out events.
Future
David Tepper, owner of both the Panthers and Charlotte FC, has shown interest in constructing a new multipurpose stadium in Uptown Charlotte to eventually replace Bank of America Stadium. He pointed to escalating maintenance expenses and the venue’s outdated features—such as the absence of open concourses and a retractable roof—as significant factors. Although originally designed with football as its primary focus, Tepper envisions the new facility supporting MLS soccer matches, concerts, conventions, and NCAA Final Four basketball tournaments. In 2022, Tepper also explored extensive renovations aimed at extending the current stadium’s lifespan by an additional two to three decades.
The development plans include creating an entertainment district situated between the future stadium and the $800 million Gateway Station intermodal transit hub currently under construction.
In June 2024, an announcement was made regarding an $800 million-plus renovation project for Bank of America Stadium. This upgrade will feature new exterior video boards, enhanced seating arrangements, improved lighting systems, expanded concourses, and various other improvements. Construction is expected to commence in 2026 with a targeted completion date around 2029.
See also
External links
- Bank of America Stadium at StadiumDB.com
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