After years of speculation, negotiation, and political maneuvering, the Washington Commanders are officially set to build a new stadium in the nation’s capital, following a monumental decision by D.C. lawmakers to approve $1.1 billion in public funding. The move marks a historic return for the franchise, which has not played within the city limits since 1996, when it left RFK Stadium for FedEx Field in Maryland.
The funding package, approved by the D.C. Council after intense debate, will help finance a state-of-the-art stadium expected to anchor a broader redevelopment plan along the Anacostia River. City leaders see the stadium not just as a sports venue, but as a catalyst for job creation, infrastructure improvements, and economic revitalization in the surrounding neighborhoods. Supporters also believe the stadium could re-establish Washington, D.C. as a premier sports destination and reconnect the Commanders with their historic fan base in the District.
For the Commanders, the deal is a major milestone under the new ownership of Josh Harris, who purchased the team from longtime and controversial owner Dan Snyder in 2023. Harris and his group have made it clear since acquiring the franchise that building a modern, fan-friendly stadium in D
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