Quarterback Tyler Thigpen #16 of the Miami Dolphins celebrates with teammates after throwing a touchdown passDoug Benc
Sun Life Financial Inc. has signed a deal for the naming rights for the stadium of the National Football League's Miami Dolphins.
The deal with Sun Life's U.S. division will result in the stadium being renamed Sun Life Stadium in time for the Super Bowl championship game next month, the company and the Dolphins said Wednesday.
Terms were not disclosed, but two sources familiar with the deal who asked not to be identified said it was for five years with options for five more at an average annual fee of about $4-million (U.S.). The company also will contribute annually to the Dolphins' charitable foundation.
The venue was previously named Land Shark Stadium following a sponsorship deal with singer/songwriter and businessman Jimmy Buffett, but that deal ended at the end of the 2009 regular season. Mr. Buffett's Magaritaville Enterprises includes his Land Shark Lager beer.
The stadium which opened in 1987, was previously known as Joe Robbie Stadium and Pro Player Stadium among other names.
The deal includes naming and sponsorship rights, and the use of the Sun Life Stadium logo on printed promotional materials, tickets and stadium signage.
Sun Life said last November it was seeking acquisitions to expand its U.S. insurance business as part of its push in that market. At the time, it launched an advertising campaign aimed at U.S. baby boomers through outlets like NFL football and Fox television.