Next-Generation, Purpose-Built Fusion Arena Breaks Ground in the Heart of the Philadelphia Sports Complex

Comcast Spectacor, The Cordish Companies and Populous gathered to celebrate the groundbreaking of the Fusion Arena in the heart of the Philadelphia Sports Complex on Wednesday, September 25. The Fusion Arena is scheduled to open its doors in early 2021 and initiates the next phase of Comcast Spectacor’s real estate development adjacent to the Wells Fargo Center, Xfinity Live! and other home venues of Philadelphia’s beloved professional sports franchises.

The $50 million, next-generation esports venue will stand as the largest new-construction, purpose-built esports arena in the Western Hemisphere and the Overwatch League. In addition to serving as a premier destination for competitive gaming events, Fusion Arena’s flexible and adaptable design lends the opportunity for 365-day activation to host a variety of live entertainment programming and experiences.

The arena’s exterior features a sleek and dynamic skin that draws inspiration from the hardware powering esports’ meteoric rise around the globe. The incorporation of industrial materials throughout Fusion Arena’s design pays tribute to Philadelphia’s heritage as the “workshop of the world.”

“The Fusion Arena is authentically designed for the city and the great fans of Philadelphia to celebrate their history while also looking ahead,” said Populous Senior Principal Brian Mirakian. “The arena represents a watershed moment for the competitive gaming and live entertainment experience and serves as the prototype for future esports venues around the world.”

Guests will be welcomed by a captivating 6,000-square-foot public entry featuring 2,000 square feet of interactive media surface hovering 30 feet. The venue will boast 60,000 square feet of new construction, featuring a stunning and futuristic design throughout, including seating for up to 3,500 guests, as well as 10,000 square feet of dedicated space for the Xfinity Training Center, broadcast studio and team offices. The high-performance training facility offers unrivaled development opportunities for players, allowing the Fusion to compete at the highest level. The technologically advanced arena will offer unique, immersive seating experiences including two balcony bars, club seats with USB ports, flexible loge boxes and exclusive suites.

“We’re proud to break ground on this ambitious project that will usher in a new generation of fans and events to the Philadelphia Sports Complex,” said Dave Scott, Chairman and CEO, Comcast Spectacor. “Fusion Arena is a stunning addition to our development plan and partnership with The Cordish Companies and exemplifies a strong belief in the future of esports.”

Fusion Arena adds $50 million of new development within Philadelphia’s Sports Complex, complementing a transformed Wells Fargo Center, Lincoln Financial Field and Citizens Bank Park.

“It is incredibly exciting for The Cordish Companies to celebrate the groundbreaking of Fusion Arena with our partner, Comcast Spectacor,” said Blake Cordish, Principal of The Cordish Companies. “The celebration marks an important milestone for our partnership as the next phase of development commences adjacent to Xfinity Live! in the heart of the Philadelphia Sports Complex. Fusion Arena will debut as a state-of-the-art, world-class venue in an unparalleled location amid Philadelphia’s beloved professional sports teams.”

Fusion Arena continues Populous’ global footprint in esports venue design. Populous debuted Esports Stadium Arlington in November of 2018, the most robust esports venue in North America. And earlier this year, Brian Mirakian spoke at SXSW and discussed how esports venues can bring cities and sports teams new revenue streams, increased commerce and development and reinvigorated neighborhoods. Contact us to learn more about our approach to the esports market.