The Saints are saying they view Mercedes-Benz’s 27-year naming rights deal for the Atlanta Falcons’ new stadium not so much as an affront but a reflection on how successful the German automaker sees its 10-year deal for the Superdome’s rights.
“From our perspective, Mercedes-Benz realized just how beneficial and positive their naming rights deal was in New Orleans,” team president Dennis Lauscha said Friday. “It was a litmus test that we, the Saints, our city and our building proved worth investing in. We honestly cannot argue against the business decision made by both parties.”
Mercedes-Benz CEO Steve Cannon called the Superdome “a great partner” during Tuesday’s announcement in Atlanta but added, “When we made that deal, we had no idea we would be moving to Atlanta.