Huntington Bank Stadium is a major outdoor sports venue located on the University of Minnesota campus in Minneapolis. Opened in 2009 after three years of construction costing $303.3 million, it serves as the home field for the Minnesota Golden Gophers football team competing in the Big Ten Conference[1][4]. The stadium was notable as the first new Big Ten football stadium since 1960 and the first NCAA FBS stadium built since 2006. It features a horseshoe design with a seating capacity of 50,805, designed for future expansion up to 80,000 seats[1].
The facility was constructed using high-quality materials including precast concrete and natural stone accents, and incorporates a Kentucky Bluegrass playing surface with an underground heating system to prevent freezing and extend turf longevity[2]. It holds the distinction of being the first LEED-certified college football stadium in the United States, reflecting its sustainable design and environmental commitments[4]. The stadium also includes the largest home locker room in college or professional football, a private recruiting room, and one of the largest high-definition video boards in college sports, which enhances fan experience[1][4].
Beyond college football, Huntington Bank Stadium has hosted significant events such as Minnesota Vikings NFL games (2014–15), Minnesota United FC soccer matches (2017–18), NHL Stadium Series hockey, international soccer matches, and major concerts by artists like U2, Beyonce, and the Rolling Stones, making it a versatile and prominent venue in the region[1][4].
The stadium’s renaming to Huntington Bank Stadium followed a partnership with Huntington National Bank, a super-regional bank headquartered in Ohio with deep community roots. Huntington Bank is also the official banking partner of the Cleveland Browns, holding naming rights to their stadium (Huntington Bank Field) in Cleveland under a 20-year agreement. This partnership emphasizes community investment, brand elevation, and shared values in service and sustainability[3][6].
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