San Jose City Council Approves Major Agreement for SAP Center
In a decisive move, the San Jose city council has green-lit a significant agreement aimed at revitalizing the SAP Center and ensuring the NHL’s San Jose Sharks remain in the city through 2051. The council’s unanimous vote on Tuesday, featuring support from Mayor Matt Mahan and all ten council members, will see the city dedicating a robust $325 million towards modernizing the aging arena, which has served as the Sharks’ home since 1993, nearly three decades since its inception in 1991.
Financial Commitments and Future Plans
Team owner Hasso Plattner is set to add to this financial commitment with an investment of $100 million, continuing his involvement as a benefactor who has contributed over $100 million to arena enhancements in the past decade alone. The new agreement includes stipulations that will impose penalties on the Sharks should they consider relocating before their current lease expires on June 30, 2051.
Additionally, discussions will kick off by September 2027 to design a new arena, signaling a commitment to the future of hockey in San Jose.
“The Sharks have been proud to play in San Jose for the last 30-plus years and look forward to another 25 more,” expressed team president Jonathan Becher. He emphasized the team’s dedication to maintaining the SAP Center while highlighting the fruitful partnership with the city that promises essential improvements for fans, performers, and the arena experience overall.
