St. Paul, MN – September 3, 2025 – The Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul has officially been renamed the Grand Casino Arena, marking a new chapter for the venue and a significant investment in its future. The naming rights agreement was celebrated today with a ceremony attended by team owner Craig Leipold and Grand Casino General Manager and Executive Director Ath.
The change comes as the Minnesota Wild continue to navigate securing funding for a planned arena remodel.Originally pitched as a $769 million project encompassing the arena and adjoining RiverCentre Convention Center and Roy Wilkins Auditorium, the proposal was scaled back to $488 million, requesting $50 million in state bond funds. Despite efforts across two legislative sessions, the team was unsuccessful in securing state funding, and was again “shut out” when the session closed in June. Leipold stated the team is now seeking $100 million from the state.
During Wednesday’s event, Ath announced the order of 1,800 end plaques for the seating aisles, all bearing the “Grand Casino” name. st. Paul Mayor Carter proclaimed Wednesday ”Grand Casino Arena Day” in the city,calling the arena “essential to downtown’s future.”
Leipold emphasized his commitment to st. Paul,but acknowledged the long-term viability of the team depends on arena improvements. “I’m a St. Paul person, I really am,” he said, “But I also know we can’t survive long-term in this arena.” He confirmed the team is not currently exploring relocation options but will consider all possibilities if state funding continues to be unavailable.
As opening in 2000, the arena has hosted over 34 million fans. Leipold also noted that one of his sons is currently in a management-training role with the team.
To commemorate the new partnership, Wind presented Leipold with a star quilt embroidered in the Ojibwe style, incorporating Minnesota Wild colors and patterns.
