TAMPA, Fla. — Officials with Vinik Sports Group and the Tampa Bay Lightning on Wednesday announced a name change for the downtown arena.
It will now be called Benchmark International Arena.
“We’re proud to welcome Benchmark International as the new naming rights partner of our venue,” said Vinik Sports Group CEO Steve Griggs. “Benchmark International is a well-respected brand with global reach and strong ties to the Tampa Bay community. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to excellence, service and community impact. As we transition to this new era, we are grateful for our long-time naming rights partner, AMALIE Motor Oil, who will continue to be a corporate partner of our organization.”
What You Need To Know
- Amalie Arena, home to the Tampa Bay Lightning, changing its name to Benchmark International Arena
- The arena, which opened in 1996, has been Amalie Arena since September 2014 when the naming rights were transferred to Amalie Oil Company
- Benchmark International Arena
As part of the partnership, the arena will undergo a complete rebranding that includes new exterior and interior signage, digital integrations and the official renaming of its premium club level to the Benchmark International Club Level, featuring The Mark as its signature all-inclusive experience.
The agreement also includes joint community initiatives with over $3,000,000 in non-profit financial contributions that align with both organizations’ desire to make a meaningful impact in Tampa Bay.
The arena, which opened in 1996, has been Amalie Arena since September 2014 when the naming rights were transferred to Amalie Oil Company.
The building was originally called the Ice Palace and later the St. Pete Times Forum from 2002-2012.
The Bolts moved to the arena in time for the 1996-97 season after several years playing at Tropicana Field.
In addition to hosting Lightning games, the arena has played host to concerts, NBA exhibition games, professional wrestling and the NCAA basketball men’s and women’s tournaments. It also hosted the National Republican Convention in 2012.
The rebrand to Benchmark International Arena will roll out in phases, with new signage and activations debuting ahead of the 2025-26 Lightning season, presented by AdventHealth. To celebrate the naming transition, VSG and Benchmark International will host a series of free community events in mid-October. Details will be announced in the coming weeks.
“This arena belongs to everyone in Tampa Bay,” added Griggs. “We’re excited to invite fans, families and the entire community to be part of this historic new chapter.”
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