On Monday, team owner Josh Harris and D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser announced a massive $4 billion project to build a new 65,000-seat, roofed stadium at the historic RFK Stadium site. The Commanders will invest $2.7 billion privately — the largest private investment in D.C.'s history — while the District will contribute around $1.1 billion toward infrastructure, parks, and community amenities surrounding the stadium.
"Without exaggeration, this will be the best stadium in the country when it's built," Harris said, with hopes of opening the venue in 2030.
Commanders Eyeing Super Bowl Future in New Home
Let’s bring this franchise back to DC pic.twitter.com/iGb7u6dbvB
— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) April 28, 2025
The new stadium is designed to be more than just a home for football. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said the project could "dramatically" boost Washington’s chances of hosting a Super Bowl for the first time, calling it a "very special day."
The stadium will occupy only about 11% of the 180-acre RFK campus, leaving space for housing, restaurants, green spaces, and a new sportsplex. With nostalgic nods to the old RFK Stadium — where Washington won three Super Bowls — Harris said his vision is to recreate the energy that once made RFK one of the most feared venues in the NFL.
Approval Process Still Looms for Commanders' D.C. Return
The #Commanders have agreed to a deal with the District of Columbia to build a new stadium at the site of RFK Stadium, where they had their greatest success. An official announcement is expected Monday morning, per @john_keim.https://t.co/r1yzY5GgG3 pic.twitter.com/XFASR1W4Yy
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) April 28, 2025
While excitement is running high, the deal still needs D.C. Council approval, and not all members are on board.
Some, like Council Member Charles Allen, expressed concern over the $1.2 billion in public funds earmarked for the project. Still, the Commanders and D.C. leadership are optimistic that the stadium will revitalize the surrounding Ward 7 area, create thousands of jobs, and reignite Washington’s long-dormant football glory.
"We’re bringing the stadium back where it should be," said former Washington quarterback and senior advisor Doug Williams. "It’s just like going home."
Photo Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
