Godwin ObajeEverton’s New Era: The Hill Dickinson Stadium Naming Rights Deal
In a significant development for Everton Football Club, the club has announced a long-term partnership with the Liverpool-based global law firm Hill Dickinson, granting them the naming rights to the new stadium situated at Bramley-Moore Dock. This agreement marks a pivotal moment in the club’s history, as they transition from their historic Goodison Park to a state-of-the-art 52,888-seat venue.
A Historic Farewell to Goodison Park
Goodison Park, Everton’s home since 1892, hosted its final match on Sunday, marking the end of an era. The club bid farewell to the iconic stadium with an emotional send-off, as fans filled the streets to commemorate the venue that has witnessed countless memorable moments. The final match at Goodison Park saw Everton secure a 2-0 victory over Southampton, with Iliman Ndiaye scoring both goals, providing a fitting conclusion to their tenure at the historic ground.
The Journey to the Hill Dickinson Stadium
The new stadium, now officially named the Hill Dickinson Stadium, is set to open its doors in time for the 2025–26 season. The naming rights deal with Hill Dickinson concludes a nearly three-year search for a partner, which began in 2022 when Everton engaged US-based company Elevate Sports Ventures to assist in securing a naming rights agreement. Prior to the sanctions placed on Russian businesses in early 2022, Everton had agreed to a £30 million deal with USM Holdings, owned by Alisher Usmanov, for first refusal on the naming rights. However, following the sanctions, that deal became unviable, prompting the club to seek new partnerships.
The Significance of the Hill Dickinson Partnership
The partnership with Hill Dickinson is not just a commercial agreement but a strategic move that aligns with the club’s vision for the future. Chief Commercial Officer Richard Kenyon emphasized the importance of finding the right partner, stating, “We are continuing to make good progress in respect of stadium naming rights as we look to secure a suitable partner to benefit from this unique opportunity.”
The deal is expected to generate significant revenue for the club, with estimates suggesting that the naming rights could bring in between £10 million and £15 million annually. Over a 10-year period, this could result in a £150 million windfall, providing the club with the financial stability needed to compete at the highest levels.
A New Chapter for Everton
As Everton prepares to move into the Hill Dickinson Stadium, the club is entering a new chapter in its storied history. The state-of-the-art facility is expected to become a hub for not only football but also community events and cultural activities, further embedding the club into the fabric of Liverpool. With the support of Hill Dickinson and other partners, Everton aims to build a sustainable future that honors its rich heritage while embracing the opportunities of the modern era.
The Hill Dickinson Stadium represents more than just a new home for Everton; it symbolizes the club’s ambition, resilience, and commitment to its supporters. As the team prepares to take the field in their new stadium, fans can look forward to a future filled with promise and excitement.
Godwin Obaje
