The Cleveland Browns might want a new stadium, but the organization is starting with a name change instead.
Today, the Browns and FirstEnergy announced an amicable breakup, with the Akron-based energy company relinquishing naming rights. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
"We've had a great association with FirstEnergy for more than two decades, and we appreciate this partnership and what it has created for our team and the broader northeast Ohio community," Dave Jenkins, Haslam Sports Group COO said in a news release. "We reached this amicable agreement that is consistent with the productive relationship we have always enjoyed, and we wish FirstEnergy success with their future initiatives. Our home stadium will return to its former name, Cleveland Browns Stadium."
The announcement, of course, comes on the heels of the local corporation's involvement with the Ohio nuclear scandal, which was described as "likely the largest bribery, money laundering scheme ever perpetrated against the people of the state of Ohio" by U.S. Attorney David M. DeVillers, who charged then-Speaker of the House and Republican Larry Householder and four others for racketeering. FirstEnergy was fined $250 million for its involvement in the crime.
"Together with the Browns, we have worked to enrich our communities while increasing awareness of FirstEnergy as an energy leader. Since we signed this agreement ten years ago, our priorities have shifted as the company evolved from a competitive energy supplier to a regulated utility, and as a result, our corporate initiatives must also evolve," said John Somerhalder, interim president and CEO. "Like the rest of northern Ohio, we remain passionate Browns fans and will cheer them on in upcoming seasons. We also look forward to maintaining our deep relationships with civic, arts and other organizations to bring good energy to our communities."
In June, Cleveland City Council voted by a count of 16-1 on a resolution to change the name of FirstEnergy Stadium.
"For them (FirstEnergy) to keep that name, and for us to allow them to keep that name on that building, is an absolute insult to the city of Cleveland and the taxpayers. I don't take kindly to people who bribe public officials," said Councilman Michael Polensek after the vote. "If they had any decency, they would take that name off the building."
Get ahead of the weekend by signing up for our free weekly “In the CLE” newsletter — your guide to fun throughout The Land. Click here to subscribe.
