The Carolina Panthers are no longer contractually tethered to the city of Charlotte.
On Friday, the 10-year agreement that has kept the franchise in its hometown officially ended. So, no the Panthers are not currently tied to Bank of America Stadium.
What does that mean? According to spokespeople from both sides, probably not much.
Here, via WBTV investigative reporter David Hodges, are the following statements from both sides regarding the expired pact:
Tepper Sports and Entertainment Spokesperson: “The Carolina Panthers and Charlotte FC are integral to the fabric of Charlotte and the Carolinas. Bank of America Stadium serves as a community asset that delivers world-class sports and entertainment to the area and we are proud to be a primary driver of economic development in uptown Charlotte and throughout the region.”
City of Charlotte Spokesperson: “Tepper Sports and Entertainment have proven their commitment to Charlotte over the years by investing in our communities and bringing Charlotte FC to our city and making upgrades to Bank of America stadium. The Teppers and their organization have been outstanding allies, with investments in Charlotte that reach far beyond the field. We are optimistic about the future of our partnership.”
The lapsing of the stadium agreement does not mean that Panthers owner David Tepper, who also owns Charlotte FC of Major League Soccer, is planning to move the team. But it does mean that such a move would bring lesser financial penalties for Tepper. Any relocation would have to be voted on and approved by three-fourths of the league’s owners.
Per Hodges, if the team relocates between now and 2027, Charlotte taxpayers would be allowed to buy the stadium from Tepper Sports at “fair market value.”
