Connecticut Sports Group Partners with Wasserman for Stadium Naming Rights Initiative

Connecticut Sports Group Teams Up with Wasserman

Connecticut Sports Group (CTSG), the ownership and development organization behind CT United FC and its highly-anticipated new waterfront stadium, has officially enlisted Wasserman to spearhead the naming rights sales strategy. This partnership aims to attract prominent brands to join in on the journey as the region strives to cultivate professional soccer in an underrepresented market.

The collaboration is anchored in a mutual commitment to elevate the visibility of soccer in Connecticut—one of the most densely populated areas of the United States that still lacks a major league team across various sports categories, including the NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, and MLS. André Swanston, a partner at CTSG and co-owner of CT United FC, emphasizes the transformational potential of this project, stating, "We’re building something transformational here, and Wasserman is the right partner to help us bring on bold, visionary brands to be part of this journey from day one."

Anticipated to break ground in 2025, the new 10,000-seat waterfront stadium will serve as a permanent venue for CT United FC, which is set to debut in MLS NEXT Pro in 2026. Designed with a forward-thinking approach, the stadium has the capability to expand to house an NWSL team and can accommodate up to 22,000 fans—an impressive feat for a venue initially meant to serve as a soccer-specific facility in Connecticut. The aim is to create a year-round hub that promotes professional sports, live entertainment, and dynamic community programming.

The stadium's strategic location near major transportation routes including I-95, as well as train, bus, and boat lines, positions it to become a vital access point for communities spanning Connecticut, New York, and New England. This accessibility is expected to make it one of the country's busiest sports venues. Furthermore, the stadium is a focal point of a broader waterfront revitalization project estimated to spur a staggering $4.3 billion in economic impact across the state. This initiative is projected to create over 1,300 new permanent jobs and yield more than 1,000 new housing units—offering a pivotal opportunity to enhance public spaces and expand community access to the waterfront.

CTSG has also expressed its intention to submit formal bids for both a Major League Soccer (MLS) expansion team and a National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) franchise. This underscores the group’s long-term vision of establishing world-class soccer infrastructure and opportunities in the state.

Chris Foy, Wasserman’s Executive Vice President and Managing Director of Rights Sales in North America, stated, "This new stadium development is primed to become the epicenter of sports and entertainment in Connecticut. We’re excited to take this opportunity to market as we enter a pivotal period of growth for soccer in America, especially with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon. This naming rights position will offer a brand the chance to establish itself as a landmark in the state. Connecticut is ready, and CT United is ready."

About Connecticut Sports Group (CTSG)

Founded with a vision of creating impactful experiences that unite communities, Connecticut Sports Group (CTSG) endeavors to own and manage professional sports teams and contemporary venues. By employing advanced technology and data, they aim to transform the sports and entertainment landscape while fostering diversity among communities.

About CT United FC

Established in 2024 by Connecticut Sports Group, CT United FC is the fifth independent professional men's soccer club in MLS NEXT Pro. Scheduled to launch in 2026, the club will make its home in the new state-of-the-art stadium in Bridgeport. CT United FC also operates Connecticut’s only free youth soccer academy for boys, contributing to the state’s rich tradition in sports excellence. For more updates, visit CT United FC or follow them on social media @ctunited.

About Wasserman

Operating globally at the intersection of sports, music, entertainment, and culture, Wasserman partners with a range of clients, from iconic teams and leagues to various governing bodies. With its unique network and industry expertise, Wasserman Rights Sales creates compelling commercial opportunities that mutually benefit rights holders and brands. Headquartered in Los Angeles, Wasserman operates in 28 countries and boasts a presence in over 70 cities. Learn more about Wasserman at teamwass.com.