The University of Tennessee and Pilot, the largest network of travel centers in North America, have announced a partnership in an effort to benefit Neyland Stadium.
According to a release from the school, the multiyear deal will “preserve the iconic venue’s name and enhances the stadium experience for future generations.” The agreement with the Knoxville-based company is slated for up to 20 years and could extend further.
The names of Neyland Stadium and Shields-Watkins Field will remain unchanged, but Pilot is designated as the presenting partner of the Neyland Stadium renovation project and the official travel stop of Tennessee athletics.
“As we navigate the changing landscape of college athletics, we are dedicated to building the best athletics department in the country,” Tennessee athletic director Danny White said in the release. “Because we were committed to preserving the name of Neyland Stadium, finding a partner who shared this vision was essential. With deep roots here in Knoxville, Pilot recognizes the significance of Neyland and the importance of tradition to our fans and the university. Our focus continues to preserve and honor our storied past while modernizing to ensure we lead the way in college sports.”
New signage on the east side of Neyland Stadium will feature a return of the iconic “Home of the Vols” along with Pilot’s logo. Pilot’s branding will also be on each side of Shields-Watkins field and in sponsored content with Tennessee athletics and the Vol Network.