In a surprising move that has set the NFL world buzzing, billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk reportedly approached the Minnesota Vikings with an audacious proposal: rename U.S. Bank Stadium to “Tesla Field” and redesign the team’s iconic purple-and-gold jerseys to incorporate Tesla branding—in exchange for long-term sponsorship and major investment.
However, according to sources close to the Vikings organization, team owner Zygi Wilf rejected the offer flatly and immediately, calling the proposal “misaligned with the team’s identity, legacy, and commitment to its fan base.”
A Bold Pitch from Silicon Valley
Elon Musk, who has shaken up industries from space travel to automotive, has long expressed interest in expanding Tesla’s branding through high-profile sports sponsorships. According to insiders, Musk’s team reached out to the Minnesota Vikings front office earlier this spring with a multi-million-dollar offer that included:
- Renaming U.S. Bank Stadium to Tesla Field for a 15-year period
- A full redesign of the Vikings’ uniforms, incorporating Tesla’s sleek, futuristic aesthetic
- On-field branding, exclusive Tesla vehicle showcases, and interactive fan experiences
- A potential collaboration with SpaceX to introduce drone-based halftime shows
Musk himself reportedly told a Tesla board member, “Football is America’s passion. Imagine merging cutting-edge tech with that passion—it’s the future of entertainment.”
Vikings Say “Absolutely Not”
Despite the financial appeal, Zygi Wilf and the Vikings ownership group issued a firm rejection.
“The Minnesota Vikings represent more than just a team—they’re a tradition. While we respect innovation, our brand is rooted in loyalty, legacy, and our incredible fans,” Wilf stated in a press release.
“Renaming our stadium and altering our jerseys for commercial gain does not align with our values.”
Wilf also expressed appreciation for Musk’s interest but emphasized that the team would continue partnerships that “honor the Vikings spirit and our Minnesota roots.”
Fan Reaction: Mixed Emotions
News of the proposal sparked immediate and passionate reactions from Vikings fans across social media. Many applauded the team’s decision to preserve its identity:
“Good for the Wilfs. We’re not for sale,” wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter).
“Tesla Field? No thanks. Keep it U.S. Bank and keep it purple and gold,” said another.
Still, some younger fans appeared intrigued by the possibilities:
“I’m not gonna lie… a Tesla-themed stadium with drone shows would’ve been kinda sick,” commented one TikTok user.
Why the Vikings?
Sports business analysts point to several reasons why the Vikings may have attracted Musk’s attention. U.S. Bank Stadium, which opened in 2016, is considered one of the NFL’s most modern venues—with a transparent roof, LED-lit exteriors, and digital fan experiences. Pair that with Minnesota’s emerging status as a tech-friendly region, and the franchise makes a compelling partner.
“From a branding perspective, it’s smart. The Vikings are established, but also young enough in stadium life to potentially rebrand,” said Daniel Pearce, a sports marketing expert. “But this is Elon Musk we’re talking about. His ideas rarely stop at conventional boundaries.”
The Bigger Picture: Tesla and Sports
This isn’t Musk’s first attempt to dive into the professional sports arena. In 2024, rumors swirled about Tesla exploring naming rights for an NBA arena in Texas. Musk has also sponsored esports tournaments, and SpaceX recently entered talks to launch a space-themed halftime experience during a future Super Bowl.
With electric vehicles facing increasing competition and Tesla’s market share showing signs of plateauing, expanding into cultural landmarks like sports stadiums could be part of a broader strategy to keep Tesla top-of-mind with consumers.
“It’s not just about exposure—it’s about identity,” said branding expert Melanie Carter.
“Musk wants Tesla to be synonymous with the future, and the NFL is America’s biggest entertainment vehicle.”
What’s Next?
While the Vikings may have passed on Musk’s offer, other teams could be more receptive—especially those with expiring stadium naming rights or rebuilding fan bases.
Still, for now, the iconic U.S. Bank Stadium name stands firm, and Vikings fans can rest easy knowing their beloved team won’t be sporting silver-and-black Tesla logos any time soon.
Elon Musk has yet to publicly comment on the rejection. But knowing Musk, this won’t be his last attempt to make headlines in the world of sports.
As Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins jokingly posted on Instagram:
“Good luck getting the Norse gods to drive Teslas.”
