ST. LOUIS — The home of St. Louis' new MLS team officially has a name: Centene Stadium.
"This is where premiere sport, advanced technology and local flavor will intersect. Where people from across the region will celebrate what our city represents. Where St. Louisans of every creed and color will come together and rally behind one crest, one team," a produced hype video stated before the announcement was made.
"Yes, our new home finally has a name," Kindle Betz stated with a smile. "Welcome to Centene Stadium."
St. Louis City SC President and Chief Executive Officer of St. Louis Carolyn Kindle Betz shared the news Tuesday in a pre-recorded announcement.
5 On Your Side sports director Frank Cusumano had confirmed Monday that St. Louis-based Centene Corporation would be named the stadium naming-rights sponsor for St. Louis City SC.
Centene is a St. Louis-based health insurance company that also has partnerships with the Blues and Cardinals, including the naming rights to the Blues' practice facility in Maryland Heights.
Centene also has a sponsorship deal in the MLS with Charlotte FC, where it houses another base of operations.
Kindle Betz called Centene an "ideal partner" for a couple different reasons, including the fact the company has a female majority-led workforce, and their focus on health and wellness aligns with the team's mission.
Kindle Betz didn't disclose how long the naming rights will be in place but said it is a multi-year deal and "they are very excited to have it."
She also thanked the St. Louis fanbase for its continued – and enthusiastic – support so far.
"Every time we've asked for something, this region has stepped up. Whether it's community, whether it's friends and family, whether it's other corporations. We're just so grateful that we have the support that we do have," Kindle Betz said.
St. Louis City SC named another St. Louis-based company, Purina, as its founding sponsor and kit sponsor in March 2021.
Construction on St. Louis City SC's stadium continues to progress, with the final steel beam of the facility placed back in August 2021. Kindle Betz said it should be "substantially complete" by the end of summer. Right now, seats are going in and they're getting ready to work on concessions. Aesthetics are being fine-tuned and they're honing in on the fan experience, she explained.
St. Louis City SC is set to begin play in the MLS in 2023 and recently named the team's first head coach in Bradley Carnell, and first player in Selmir Pidro.