The Change of Name
The Washington Commanders, formerly known as the Washington Redskins, have announced that they have sold the naming rights of their stadium to FedEx. This change of name came as a result of ongoing protests against the use of the term “Redskins” that many find offensive and derogatory towards Native Americans.
The team has been using the name “Redskins” since 1933, and it has been a topic of controversy and debate for years. In July 2020, the team officially announced that they would be retiring the name and logo, and began the search for a new name.
The New Name
After months of deliberation and fan input, the team announced on February 2, 2022, that they would be changing their name to the Washington Commanders. The new name is meant to represent the strength and leadership of the team, as well as the military and political history of the city.
The team also unveiled a new logo and color scheme, featuring a shield with a “W” in the center, surrounded by stars and stripes. The primary colors are burgundy and gold, with navy blue and white as secondary colors.
The Sale of Naming Rights
The team announced on March 28, 2022, that they have sold the naming rights of their stadium to FedEx for an undisclosed amount. The stadium will now be known as FedEx Field. This is not the first time that the team has sold the naming rights of their stadium, as it was previously known as Jack Kent Cooke Stadium and then FedEx Field.
The sale of naming rights is a common practice in professional sports, as it provides a significant source of revenue for the team. The money from the sale of naming rights can be used for various purposes, such as upgrading the stadium, improving the team’s facilities, and investing in the community.
The Reaction from Fans and Critics
The announcement of the name change and the sale of naming rights has been met with mixed reactions from fans and critics. Many fans are excited about the new name and logo, and feel that it represents a fresh start for the team. Others, however, are disappointed with the change and feel that the team has lost a part of its history and tradition.
Critics of the sale of naming rights argue that it is a sign of the commercialization of sports, and that it takes away from the authenticity and integrity of the game. They also argue that the use of corporate names for stadiums can be confusing and detract from the fan experience.
The Future of the Washington Commanders
The Washington Commanders are entering a new era with a new name, logo, and stadium. The team is hoping that the change will bring renewed energy and success on the field, as well as a stronger connection with the community. The sale of naming rights provides the team with additional resources to invest in the team and the community, and the team is hoping to continue to build on the legacy and tradition of football in Washington, D.C.
The future of the Washington Commanders is bright, and fans are eagerly anticipating the start of the 2022 season to see the team in action. With a new name, logo, and stadium, the Washington Commanders are ready to take on the challenges of the NFL and continue to build on the rich history of football in the nation’s capital.
