Minnesota Wild Ends Arena Naming Deal with Xcel Energy After 25 Years

ST. PAUL, Minn. — The Minnesota Wild will no longer call their home the “X” after a 25-year partnership with Xcel Energy. The team announced the conclusion of its naming rights agreement with the energy company on Tuesday, marking the end of an era for fans and players alike.

“We are extremely thankful for our 25-year naming and team marketing rights partnership with Xcel Energy,” said Minnesota Wild owner Craig Leipold. “Xcel Energy has been an incredible supporter of our team since our inaugural season, and we look forward to continuing to collaborate with them on a number of unique community initiatives as part of our new, long-term partnership.”

While the naming rights agreement will expire this summer, the two organizations will continue their relationship through a new collaboration. As part of the updated agreement, Xcel Energy plans to launch the “Community Power Play,” a program aimed at increasing youth involvement in hockey across Minnesota.

The Community Power Play initiative will offer grants to youth and high school hockey programs, focusing on financial assistance for young athletes, equipment purchases, and upgrades to local rinks and facilities. This effort aims to remove barriers for aspiring hockey players, said Bob Frenzel, Xcel Energy chairman, president and CEO.

“25 years ago, the Minnesota Wild and Xcel Energy were new brands in the region. Today, these two brands have become embedded in our community and our culture,” Frenzel stated. “This new chapter with the Wild extends our commitment to the region and will serve to expand access to the sport of hockey so that more young girls and boys across the state can access and more fully engage in this wonderful sport.”

The Minnesota Wild will maintain a presence for Xcel Energy in their arena and on digital platforms to ensure the community continues to recognize the support from their long-standing partner. The team has indicated that it expects to announce a new arena naming rights partner before the start of the 2025-26 NHL season.