How Old is FedEx Field? The Definitive Answer & More

FedEx Field, the home of the Washington Commanders, officially opened on September 14, 1997. That makes it approximately 26 years old as of late 2023. But the story of this stadium is far more interesting than just a simple birthdate. Let’s dive deeper into its history, evolution, and future.

A Stadium Shrouded in History (and Controversy)

FedEx Field, originally named Jack Kent Cooke Stadium after the team’s then-owner, has seen its fair share of memorable moments, alongside a considerable amount of controversy. From record-breaking crowds to numerous renovations (some lauded, some less so), its lifespan reflects the ever-changing landscape of the National Football League (NFL) and the passionate, often critical, fan base of the Commanders.

From Vision to Reality: The Initial Construction

The decision to build a new stadium stemmed from the limitations of the Commanders’ previous home, RFK Stadium. While beloved by many for its intimate atmosphere, RFK lacked the luxury suites and revenue-generating amenities that were becoming standard in the modern NFL. Jack Kent Cooke envisioned a state-of-the-art facility that could compete with the best stadiums in the league. Construction began in 1996, and the stadium opened its doors just a year later.

Name Changes and Corporate Sponsorship

Following Cooke’s death in 1997, the stadium was briefly renamed Jack Kent Cooke Stadium at FedEx Field before ultimately becoming simply FedEx Field in 1999. This reflects the increasing importance of corporate sponsorships in professional sports and highlights the financial realities that drive stadium naming rights.

Key Renovations and Their Impact

FedEx Field has undergone several renovations throughout its history, aimed at improving the fan experience and increasing seating capacity. Notably, the addition of the “Upper Deck” in the early 2000s temporarily made it the largest stadium in the NFL. However, this expansion also led to accessibility issues and sightline problems, drawing criticism from fans. Subsequent renovations have attempted to address these shortcomings, with varying degrees of success.

The Current State of FedEx Field: Challenges and Opportunities

Today, FedEx Field faces numerous challenges, including aging infrastructure, ongoing concerns about fan experience, and the persistent rumors of a potential new stadium. While the stadium still serves as the home of the Commanders, its future remains uncertain. The team’s new ownership group, led by Josh Harris, has publicly stated their commitment to exploring all options, including renovating FedEx Field or building a brand-new facility. The coming years will be crucial in determining the long-term future of the stadium and its role in the Washington Commanders’ legacy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About FedEx Field

To further explore the story of FedEx Field, here are 12 frequently asked questions:

1. Why was RFK Stadium replaced with FedEx Field?

RFK Stadium, while having a unique historical ambiance, lacked the modern amenities and revenue-generating features that were becoming essential for NFL teams. Luxury suites, enhanced concessions, and larger seating capacities were key drivers behind the decision to build a new stadium. The Commanders needed a facility that could compete financially with other teams in the league.

2. What was the original seating capacity of FedEx Field?

When it opened in 1997, FedEx Field had a seating capacity of approximately 78,709. This made it one of the larger stadiums in the NFL at the time.

3. When was the Upper Deck added to FedEx Field?

The controversial “Upper Deck” expansion was added in the early 2000s, primarily between the 2000 and 2001 seasons.

4. What was the highest seating capacity of FedEx Field after the Upper Deck expansion?

Following the Upper Deck expansion, FedEx Field briefly became the largest stadium in the NFL, with a peak seating capacity of approximately 91,000.

5. Has the seating capacity of FedEx Field been reduced?

Yes, the seating capacity of FedEx Field has been reduced over the years. Sections have been removed to improve the fan experience and add more premium seating options. The current capacity is around 62,000 seats.

6. What are some of the criticisms of FedEx Field?

Common criticisms include poor traffic flow and parking accessibility, substandard field conditions (historically), obstructed views from some seats, and a generally outdated infrastructure. These issues have contributed to a less-than-ideal fan experience for many attendees.

7. Who was Jack Kent Cooke and what was his connection to the stadium?

Jack Kent Cooke was the owner of the Washington Commanders (then the Washington Redskins) who spearheaded the effort to build a new stadium. The stadium was initially named in his honor to recognize his vision and commitment to the team.

8. What is the significance of FedEx’s naming rights deal?

The naming rights deal with FedEx is a significant financial agreement that provides the team with substantial revenue. It also reflects the growing trend of corporate sponsorship in professional sports, where companies pay significant sums for the right to associate their brand with a sports team or venue.

9. What is the current status of the field conditions at FedEx Field?

The field conditions have been an ongoing concern at FedEx Field. There have been many player injuries linked to the poor field conditions over the years. There are ongoing attempts to improve the field conditions, but it remains a concern for the NFL Players Association and many fans.

10. Are there plans to build a new stadium for the Washington Commanders?

Yes, the possibility of building a new stadium is actively being explored. The new ownership group has publicly stated their intention to evaluate all options, including building a new facility at a different location. Several potential sites in Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia are being considered.

11. How does FedEx Field compare to other NFL stadiums in terms of fan experience?

Compared to many of the newer NFL stadiums, FedEx Field generally lags behind in terms of overall fan experience. Modern stadiums often feature more upscale amenities, better concourse layouts, improved food and beverage options, and advanced technology integrations. However, efforts are underway to improve the fan experience at FedEx Field, including upgrades to concessions and enhanced in-stadium entertainment.

12. What is the future of FedEx Field?

The future of FedEx Field is uncertain. While the stadium is still operational, its long-term viability depends on several factors, including the decision of the Commanders’ ownership group regarding a new stadium, the team’s ability to address existing infrastructure issues, and its success in improving the overall fan experience. It’s possible that the stadium could undergo further renovations, or it could eventually be replaced by a new facility in the coming years. The team’s new owners will need to evaluate their options carefully and make a strategic decision that will impact the future of the Washington Commanders franchise.

In conclusion, while FedEx Field might be 26 years old, its story is still being written. Its history is intertwined with the evolution of the NFL, the changing landscape of sports business, and the unwavering passion of the Washington Commanders’ fan base. Whether it remains the team’s home for years to come or is eventually replaced by a new facility, FedEx Field will forever be a part of the Commanders’ legacy.