It’s finally happening Australia! We’re getting a slice of Disney in Melbourne, but it’s not in the form of a grand and exciting theme park, it’s in the form of a… football stadium.
Wakanada what?!
The Walt Disney Company Australia used a little Mickey magic (and we’re guessing some big Mickey bucks) to win an eight-year agreement with Melbourne Stadiums Limited that’ll see Etihad Stadium renamed to Marvel Stadium.
The name change, that’ll see geeks around Australia show some interest in sports (*coughs* me), will take place from 1 September this year.
In a statement, Melbourne Stadiums Limited Chief Executive Michael Green said the rebranding is part of a wider plan to turn the Docklands into an entertainment district featuring a Marvel retail store and “other activations” that’ll bring comic characters to life.
“Marvel is a powerhouse in the entertainment industry and one of the most recognised brand names in the world,” he said.
“It is a brand dedicated to audience experiences, which firmly aligns with our vision to create incredible experiences for fans.”
“This partnership will allow us to take the stadium atmosphere to the next level and create memorable experiences for a vast array of audiences and we look forward to delivering a truly game-changing experience.”
Michael Green, Melbourne Stadiums Limited Chief Executive
The Walt Disney Company’s Kylie Watson-Wheeler said Australians were some of the biggest Marvel fans in the world and sees the partnership as a “great fit”.
“Marvel is known for epic storytelling with heart, action, humour and relatability,” she said.
“MSL’s Docklands Stadium has told its own compelling stories over time, via a vast array of sport and entertainment.”
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