Detroit is poised for a significant change as Comerica Park, the cherished home of the Detroit Tigers since its opening in 2000, is set to undergo a name change. This announcement follows the recent acquisition of Comerica Bank by Fifth Third Bancorp for a staggering $10.9 billion. Officials have indicated that the ballpark could bear a new name as early as 2027, following the conclusion of the 2026 season.
David Girodat, the Michigan regional president of Fifth Third, emphasized the importance of the ballpark, stating, “It's an iconic asset in the city of Detroit.” Girodat also reassured fans that discussions regarding the stadium's new name would involve collaboration with all relevant partners to ensure the right choice is made.
Despite the impending changes, Comerica Bank confirmed that there are currently no plans to alter the stadium’s name for the upcoming 2026 season. The bank assured fans that a rebranding is on the horizon. As part of the transition, Fifth Third Bancorp will work closely with the Ilitch family, owners of the Tigers, to facilitate a smooth changeover while continuing their sponsorship of various sports properties.
Representatives from Ilitch Sports & Entertainment, the parent company of the Tigers, declined to comment on the matter at this time. However, industry experts note that most naming agreements typically include clauses that transfer naming rights to the acquiring company, often at the new company’s expense. Erik Gordon, a professor at the University of Michigan's Ross School of Business, provided insight into these common contractual practices.
Comerica Bank, originally founded as the Detroit Savings Fund in the 1800s, has a rich history in Detroit. The bank held its headquarters in Detroit until relocating to Dallas in 2007. Since the opening of Comerica Park, the bank has maintained naming rights, marking a pivotal moment in the franchise's history. The initial deal, a 30-year contract worth $66 million signed in 1998, was extended in 2018 to last until 2034.
In anticipation of the 2025 season, the Tigers have already increased the amount of signage for Comerica Bank at the stadium, replacing the script "Tigers" on the scoreboard in left field with the bank's name and adding it prominently behind home plate.
In a joint statement released to The News, Fifth Third and Comerica expressed their shared commitment to the communities they serve, particularly in Detroit. They acknowledged the significance of Comerica Park to Tigers fans and the broader community, emphasizing the importance of honoring the legacy of both institutions during this transition period.
It's also noteworthy that Fifth Third Bancorp has a history of involvement in baseball stadium naming rights. The Toledo Mud Hens, the Tigers' Triple-A affiliate, play at Fifth Third Field, while the West Michigan Whitecaps, the Tigers' Single-A affiliate, previously played at Fifth Third Ballpark, which has since been renamed LMCU Ballpark.
Should the acquisition proceed as planned, Fifth Third Bancorp would rise to become the ninth-largest bank in the United States, marking a new chapter not only for the financial institution but also for the Detroit sports landscape.
