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NRG Stadium
NRG Stadium
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NRG Stadium (previously known as Reliant Stadium) is a retractable roof multi-purpose stadium in Houston, Texas, U.S. Construction was completed in 2002, at a cost of $352 million and has a seating capacity of 72,220.[9][10] It was the first NFL facility to have a retractable roof.[11]

Key Information

The stadium is the home of the National Football League's Houston Texans, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, the Texas Bowl, many of the United States men's national soccer team's matches, Mexico national football team friendlies where El Tri serves as the host, and other events. The stadium served as the host facility for Super Bowls XXXVIII (2004) and LI (2017), the 2024 College Football Playoff National Championship, and WrestleMania 25 (2009).[12] The stadium will host multiple matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.[13]

NRG Stadium is part of a collection of venues (including the Astrodome), which are collectively called NRG Park. The entire complex is named for NRG Energy under a 32-year, $300 million naming rights deal in 2000.

History

[edit]

The Houston NFL Holdings group came to HOK Sport (now Populous) to begin the schematic design for the first-ever NFL retractable roof football stadium in 1997. The intention was to create a football stadium to replace the Astrodome that would operate like an open-air facility but have the intimacy and comfort of an indoor arena. With the design for football and the square footage requirements of the rodeo, the building was designed in the 1.9-million-square-foot (180,000 m2) range.[10] Groundbreaking for the stadium was on March 9, 2000, and the building was officially topped off in October 2001.[14] Construction was completed in 30 months.[15]

The stadium opened on August 24, 2002, with a preseason game between the Miami Dolphins and Houston Texans which the Dolphins won 24–3.[16] The stadium hosted its first regular season NFL football game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Houston Texans on September 8, 2002, which the Texans won against their interstate rival 19–10.[17] The first rodeo was held in the stadium in February 2003.[14]

During a Texans preseason game on August 30, 2012, against the Minnesota Vikings, an intoxicated fan fell to his death from an escalator.[18]

On March 19, 2014, the stadium was renamed NRG Stadium, after NRG Energy, the parent company of Reliant Energy.[19]

During the 2015 season, a permanent artificial surface was installed at NRG Stadium. The Texans had used a natural surface since the stadium opened, using a system of trays of sod similar to one used at Giants Stadium in its experiment with using a grass surface. In recent years, the stadium installed artificial turf to be used during high school and college games while keeping the grass for Texans games. After the Texans' home opener, complaints about the field conditions finally led to the installation of the artificial surface for Texans games. The surface brand is UBU Speed, which is part of Act Global.[20]

In 2017, NRG Stadium selected Hellas Construction to install its Matrix Turf with Helix Technology at the stadium. The three year contract calls for a new turf field each year.[21]

After hosting Super Bowl LI, further upgrades were made to keep NRG Stadium competitive with other new NFL venues. The stadium's first major renovation in 15 years modernized the office and team facilities.[22][23][24][25]

On April 19, 2023, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo renamed NRG Stadium to NRG Stadium (Taylor's Version) to celebrate Taylor Swift's much anticipated Eras Tour.[26][27]

On December 25, 2024, the first ever halftime show for the NFL's Christmas Gameday is set to be headlined by Beyoncé at NRG Stadium.[28]

Hurricane Ike damage

[edit]

On the night of September 12–13, 2008, the stadium sustained damage from Hurricane Ike, forcing the Houston Texans home opener scheduled for September 14 to be postponed. Part of the roof cladding came off, and there was wind and water damage to other sections of the stadium. There were also large pieces of debris inside the stadium from the hurricane and the stadium authority declared that the stadium did not suffer significant structural damage except for the roof, and the Texans would be able to play all of their 8 home games at Reliant Stadium with the roof open.[29][30]

The Texans' home opener against the Baltimore Ravens was initially postponed one day from Sunday, September 14, 2008, to Monday, September 15, but when the extent of the damage from Hurricane Ike became known, the NFL rescheduled the Texans-Ravens game to week 10 (November 9, 2008), which was to have been the bye week for the Ravens and the Texans' scheduled home game against the Cincinnati Bengals.[29] That game was rescheduled to week 8 (October 26), which was to have been the bye week for both the Texans and Bengals. The Bengals' bye week was moved from October 26. The Texans and Ravens took their unexpected bye week in week 2, the weekend Hurricane Ike hit East Texas and the Gulf Coast, despite the fact that both teams were preparing that whole week to play that game as scheduled.

The stadium reopened on October 5, 2008, when the Texans hosted the Indianapolis Colts and hosted three additional home games in October.[30]

The stadium was repaired by Houston-based rope access inspection and construction firm Reel Group Americas on February 13, 2009.

Design and technology

[edit]
Street view

The stadium was designed by the architectural firms of Hermes Reed Architects and Lockwood, Andrews and Newnam who were teamed to create the Houston Stadium Consultants (HSC). The architects of Populous (then HOK Sport) and the HSC worked together with engineers from Walter P Moore and Uni-Systems to design the stadium utilizing the principles of kinetic architecture.[10][31] The facility offers a sense of transparency, with its fabric roof and expansive areas of glazing. At night, the building appears to glow from within. The extensive use of glass provides an open-air feel to the concourses, which are open to the field of play. NRG Stadium has over 7,000 club seats, 186 luxury suites, and multiple lounges and bars.[11] The stadium can be configured to utilize a 125,000-square-foot (11,600 m2) space for meetings, specialty functions, exhibits, and concerts.[9]

One of the most notable aspects of the design is the stadium's retractable, fabric roof. The roof mechanization consists of two large panels that split apart at the 50 yard line, lying over and above each end zone when fully retracted. 10 parallel, tri-chord trusses ride on two parallel rails, each supported by a large, 675 feet (206 m)-long super-truss. Roof operation is controlled in the stadium press box via computer, containing live images of the travel path of each roof panel; plus, furnishing live feedback from all roof components throughout the operation. The roof panels can be opened or closed in as little as 7 minutes, moving at a speed of up to 35 feet (11 m)-per-minute.[32]

One bleacher section behind the north end zone, called the "Bull Pen", is the designated fan section for the hometeam. The fans in the Bull Pen interact directly with the action on the field, helping to create and implement fan traditions, songs, chants, and other elements of the game-day experience for spectators all over the stadium. Fans in the Bull Pen are encouraged to stand throughout the game, sing, cheer, and otherwise support the team in an enthusiastic manner.[33]

In 2011, Reliant updated their logo and therefore had to update their signage all over the stadium.[34]

In December 2012, it was announced that, in order to help bring the Super Bowl back to Houston, the stadium's end zone displays would be replaced with the largest digital displays in any professional sports venue. The video screens were revealed August 16, 2013 and are the second largest of their kind, at a total of 14,549 square feet (1,351.6 m2) of screens. This tops the previous record of AT&T Stadium in Arlington. This has since been topped by the digital display boards located in TIAA Bank Field, the home of the Jacksonville Jaguars, now home to the largest digital display boards in any stadium in the world.[35][36]

Stadium usage

[edit]

Sports

[edit]

Football

[edit]
NRG Stadium in Super Bowl LI livery

The Houston Texans have played their home games at NRG Stadium (or Reliant Stadium) since their inception in 2002. The annual calendar consists of 8 regular season and 1–2 pre-season games, plus any playoff games the Texans host. The first game played was on August 24, 2002, in front of 69,432 in attendance as the Texans hosted the Miami Dolphins in their first preseason game.[37] The first regular season game was played on September 8 of that year, where the expansion Texans defeated the Dallas Cowboys 19–10 in front of 69,604.[38] The first Monday Night Football game in Texans history was held on December 1, 2008, at Reliant Stadium. Playing in front of a then-franchise-record crowd of 70,809, the Texans defeated the Jacksonville Jaguars 30–17.[39] Since then that record crowd has been broken in the next 2 Texans home games of that season. Their December 7, 2008 home game against the Tennessee Titans saw a then-record crowd of 70,831[40] and the December 28, 2008 home finale against the Chicago Bears drew then a current franchise-crowd record of 70,838.[41] That record was broken on November 23, 2009, when a record crowd of 71,153 was in attendance during the Texans' second ever Monday Night Football game against Houston's former NFL team, the Tennessee Titans.[42] The Texans' home finale of the 2009 season against the New England Patriots on January 3, 2010, drew 71,029.

Banners outside before Super Bowl LI

NRG Stadium has hosted 2 Super Bowls: Super Bowl XXXVIII (which was marred by a controversial halftime show) and Super Bowl LI (which was the first Super Bowl to go into overtime); both games pitted the New England Patriots against a team from the NFC South.

NRG Stadium hosted Super Bowl XXXVIII on February 1, 2004, where the New England Patriots defeated the Carolina Panthers, 32–29 in front of 71,525 in attendance.[43]

NRG Stadium hosted the Texans' first playoff game in franchise history on January 7, 2012, with Houston defeating the Cincinnati Bengals 31–10 in an AFC wild card game, drawing 71,725, the largest crowd ever to see a Texans game at Reliant Stadium.[44]

NRG Stadium hosted Super Bowl LI in 2017, in which the New England Patriots defeated the Atlanta Falcons 34–28 in the biggest comeback in Super Bowl history;[45] it was also the first ever overtime game in Super Bowl history.

Interior of Reliant Stadium during a Texans game


Rodeo

[edit]

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (or RodeoHouston) is a co-tenant of NRG Stadium. "The building is as much for the rodeo as it is for the National Football League," according to Leroy Shafer who is assistant general manager of the rodeo's marketing department.[46] The rodeo is held three weeks in March, each year. During this time NRG Stadium also hosts an event on the Xtreme Bulls tour, the bull riding-only tour that is part of the PRCA, who also hosts the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.

The stadium includes a service area level to house rodeo livestock. The bulls, broncs, steers and roping calves are housed in the north end of the stadium under the lower bowl. Loading and unloading dock space to support the rodeo is located on the north end of the stadium. During rodeo performances, rolling doors will separate the dock into two receiving areas to isolate the food and concession deliveries from the rodeo equipment and livestock deliveries. A 42-foot (13 m) concert performance stage is located at the south end of the stadium during rodeo events and is moved into the center of the facility by a hydraulic drive system for rodeo concert performances.[46]

On February 25, 2012, the PBR brought its premier bull riding tour, the Built Ford Tough Series, to Reliant Stadium for the first time ever. It was the first time that a PBR event was a part of RodeoHouston.[47][48] In addition, it was their first event in Houston in 11 years, after having previously held an event at the Compaq Center annually between 1998 and 2001.

Interior of Reliant Stadium at the 2006 rodeo

College football

[edit]

College football's Texas Bowl and Texas Kickoff are annually hosted at the stadium. The first-ever edition of the Texas Bowl featured a game between Rutgers University and Kansas State University, with Rutgers winning 37–10. The stadium hosted the Houston Bowl before the Texas Bowl's inception and also hosted both the 2002 and 2005 Big 12 Championship Games. The 2005 game featured Houston native Vince Young at quarterback for the University of Texas at Austin and led the Longhorns to a 70–3 rout of the University of Colorado in front of 71,107.[49] In addition, the East–West Shrine Game was held there in 2007.

A Bayou Classic game between Grambling State and Southern was held here in November 2005 due to Hurricane Katrina damage at the rivalry's usual venue of the Superdome.[50]

Each of the city's two Division I FBS schools, the University of Houston and Rice University, has played regular season home games at NRG Stadium in the past. The Houston–Rice football rivalry game, the Bayou Bucket Classic, was held there in 2004, and in 2011, the game was announced to be played at Reliant Stadium for the 2012 and 2013 seasons as well.[51]

The stadium also hosts the "Battle of the Piney Woods" since 2010.[52] It is one of the oldest football rivalries in Texas, featuring Division I FCS Sam Houston State University and Stephen F. Austin State University. The series was originally scheduled to run until 2013,[53] before being extended to 2017, and finally in April 2015, the stadium was made the permanent home of the series.[54]

The two largest historically black universities in Texas, Texas Southern University and Prairie View A&M University, each have played selected regular season home games at NRG Stadium as well.

The SWAC Championship Game was held at the stadium from 2013 until 2017.[55]

In 2017, NRG Stadium was announced as a future site for the College Football Playoff National Championship game; it hosted the event on January 8, 2024 (ending the 2023 college football season), which featured the Michigan Wolverines (winners of the Rose Bowl) and the Washington Huskies (winners of the Sugar Bowl).[56]

High school football

[edit]

NRG Stadium is regularly utilized by varsity football teams as a neutral site during the University Interscholastic League football playoffs.

Soccer

[edit]
NRG Stadium, Leagues Cup 2024

NRG Stadium also hosts international soccer matches. The games are generally held in the spring and summer before the NFL season starts. The stadium hosted CONCACAF Gold Cup matches from 2005 to 2011. The Gold Cup matches in 2007 included first round matches, and a quarterfinal doubleheader match. The venue's attendance record was set during a preparation match between the Mexico national team and the U.S. men's soccer team.

On February 6, 2008, United States v Mexico was held at Reliant Stadium to a capacity crowd of 70,103. The previous USA v Mexico match in Reliant Stadium drew a sellout crowd of 69,582 fans on May 8, 2003 and was the largest home crowd for the United States men's national team that decade,[57] until they played Mexico for a capacity crowd of 79,156 fans in Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey for the 2009 CONCACAF Gold Cup final.

Reliant Stadium hosted the 2010 MLS All-Star Game as 70,728 fans watched Manchester United defeat the MLS All-Stars 5–2.[58]

On January 25, 2012, Venezuela played a friendly match with Mexico, with Mexico winning 3–1.[59] On May 31, 2013, Mexico played another friendly, with Nigeria, which ended in a 2–2 draw.[60]

In June 2016, NRG Stadium hosted two matches in the group stage and one semifinal in the Copa América Centenario. Costa Rica beat Colombia 3–2. Mexico and Venezuela drew 1–1. Argentina beat the United States 4–0; Lionel Messi scored a free kick, making him Argentina's all-time leading scorer.

Date Winning Team Result Losing Team Tournament Spectators
May 8, 2003  United States 0–0  Mexico Friendly 69,582
July 29, 2004 Everton F.C. 5-2 Pachuca Copa de Tejas 8,346[61]
August 1, 2004 Club America 3-1 Everton F.C. Copa de Tejas 16,434[62]
July 11, 2005  Guatemala 1–1  South Africa 2005 CONCACAF Gold Cup Group C 45,311
 Mexico 1–0  Jamaica
July 17, 2005  Colombia 2–1  Mexico 2005 CONCACAF Gold Cup quarterfinals 60,050
 Panama 1–1
(5–3 pen.)
 South Africa
November 16, 2005  Bulgaria 3–0  Mexico Friendly 35,526
June 13, 2007  Honduras 5–0  Cuba 2007 CONCACAF Gold Cup Group C 68,417
 Mexico 1–0  Panama
June 17, 2007  Mexico 1–0
(a.e.t.)
 Costa Rica 2007 CONCACAF Gold Cup quarterfinals 70,092
 Guadeloupe 2–1  Honduras
February 6, 2008  United States 2–2  Mexico Friendly 70,103
June 15, 2008  Mexico 2–0  Belize 2010 FIFA World Cup qualification 50,137
July 9, 2009  Guadeloupe 2–0  Nicaragua 2009 CONCACAF Gold Cup Group C 47,713
 Mexico 1–1  Panama
May 13, 2010  Mexico 1–0  Angola Friendly 70,099
July 28, 2010 England Manchester United 5–2 United StatesCanada MLS All-Stars 2010 MLS All-Star Game 70,728
June 22, 2011  United States 1–0  Panama 2011 CONCACAF Gold Cup semifinals 70,627
 Mexico 2–0
(a.e.t.)
 Honduras
January 25, 2012  Mexico 3–1  Venezuela Friendly 40,128
May 31, 2013  Mexico 2–2  Nigeria Friendly 62,107
August 6, 2014 Italy Milan 3–0 Mexico Guadalajara Club Friendly 14,871
July 1, 2015  Mexico 0–0  Honduras Friendly 70,128
June 11, 2016  Costa Rica 3–2  Colombia Copa América Centenario Group A 45,808
June 13, 2016  Mexico 1–1  Venezuela Copa América Centenario Group C 67,319
June 21, 2016  Argentina 4–0  United States Copa América Centenario semifinals 70,858
June 28, 2017  Mexico 1–0  Ghana Friendly 37,617
July 20, 2017 England Manchester United 2–0 England Manchester City 2017 International Champions Cup 67,401
September 7, 2018  Uruguay 4–1  Mexico Friendly 60,617
June 29, 2019  Haiti 3–2  Canada 2019 CONCACAF Gold Cup quarterfinals 70,788
 Mexico 1–1
(5–4 pen.)
 Costa Rica
July 20, 2019 Germany Bayern Munich 3–1 Spain Real Madrid 2019 International Champions Cup 60,143
July 29, 2021  Mexico 2–1  Canada 2021 CONCACAF Gold Cup semifinals 70,304
July 20, 2022 England Manchester City 2–1 Mexico América Club Friendly 61,223
June 25, 2023  Haiti 2–1  Qatar 2023 CONCACAF Gold Cup Group B 66,255
 Mexico 4–0  Honduras
July 26, 2023 Spain Real Madrid 2–0 England Manchester United Club Friendly 67,801
June 22, 2024  Mexico 1–0  Jamaica 2024 Copa América Group B 53,763
June 24, 2024  Colombia 2–1  Paraguay 2024 Copa América Group D 67,059
July 4, 2024  Argentina 1–1
(4–2 pen.)
 Ecuador 2024 Copa América quarterfinals 69,456
August 3, 2024 Mexico UANL 2–1 United States Inter Miami CF 2024 Leagues Cup 46,080
October 13, 2024 Mexico América 2–0 Mexico Guadalajara Club Friendly 54,117
July 6, 2025  Mexico 2–1  United States 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup final 70,925

2026 FIFA World Cup

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NRG Stadium will host seven matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. It is one of eleven US venues which have been selected. It is also one of two venues in Texas which have been selected to host matches, the other being AT&T Stadium in Arlington. During the event, the stadium will be temporarily renamed to "Houston Stadium" in accordance with FIFA's policy on corporate sponsored names.[63] The stadium will host five group stage matches, one Round of 32 match, and one Round of 16 match on Independence Day.[64]

Date Time (UTC−5) Team #1 Res. Team #2 Round Attendance
June 14, 2026 --:-- TBD TBD Group E
June 17, 2026 --:-- TBD TBD Group K
June 20, 2026 --:-- TBD TBD Group F
June 23, 2026 --:-- TBD TBD Group K
June 26, 2026 --:-- TBD TBD Group H
June 29, 2026 --:-- Winner Group C Runner-up Group F Round of 32
July 4, 2026 --:-- Winner Match 73 Winner Match 75 Round of 16

College basketball

[edit]

The stadium has hosted the NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament several times, including the 2008, 2010 and 2015 South Regional semifinals and finals, and the Final Four in 2011, 2016, and 2023.

Motorsports

[edit]

For the past eighteen years, NRG Stadium has played host to Monster Jam. Also, it has hosted a round of the AMA Supercross Championship since 2003, replacing the Astrodome which had been host since 1974.[65]

Concerts

[edit]
The stadium frequently hosts large-scale music concerts.

The stadium is a regular concert venue and has featured performers such as Linkin Park, The Rolling Stones, Metallica, Beyoncé, [[U2], Selena,Guns N' Roses, Morgan Wallen, One Direction, Taylor Swift, and Coldplay over the years. When Taylor Swift returned in 2023 for The Eras Tour, she became the first act in stadium history to sell out three shows on a single tour.[66]

On June 14, 2025, Metallica set a new attendance record at the stadium with over 75,000 fans confirmed in attendance in support of their M72 World Tour.[67]

Hockey

[edit]

On September 23, 2011, the Dallas Stars and the Phoenix Coyotes were scheduled to play a preseason game. This proposed game was later canceled citing costs to put ice in the stadium.[68][69]

Other events

[edit]

Rice University uses executive offices in the stadium to teach a professional sports management class.[70]

The stadium hosted WrestleMania 25 on April 5, 2009.

The Howdy Modi event was held on September 22, 2019, by Texas India Forum.

During the summer of 2019, the stadium hosted two international conventions of Jehovah's Witnesses, gathering thousands of delegates from around the world.[71][72]

See also

[edit]

Notes

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
NRG Stadium is a multi-purpose domed stadium located in , , serving as the home of the National Football League's Houston Texans and hosting the annual . Opened on August 24, 2002, as Reliant Stadium, it was constructed at a cost of $352 million to replace the neighboring , with a seating capacity of 72,220 for football games that can expand to over 80,000 for select events like concerts. The stadium features one of the world's largest retractable roofs, measuring 385 feet wide by 500 feet long, allowing it to convert from an open-air to a climate-controlled venue, and includes advanced amenities such as 198 luxury suites, over 1,200 access points, and massive LED video boards. Originally named Reliant Stadium after a $300 million, 32-year naming rights deal with Reliant Energy in 2000, the venue was renamed NRG Stadium in March 2014 following NRG Energy's acquisition of Reliant. Owned by the Harris County-Houston Sports Authority and operated by ASM Global, the 1.9 million-square-foot facility spans 125,000 square feet of configurable event space and has earned LEED Silver certification for its sustainable design elements, including energy-efficient systems and water conservation measures. NRG Stadium has hosted numerous high-profile events, including Super Bowl XXXVIII in 2004, where the New England Patriots defeated the Carolina Panthers, and Super Bowl LI in 2017, famous for the Atlanta Falcons' historic collapse against the Patriots. It also served as the site for WrestleMania 25 in 2009, drawing a record WWE attendance of 72,744, and the 2024 College Football Playoff National Championship, where Michigan defeated Washington. Looking ahead, the stadium is scheduled to host seven matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including group stage and knockout rounds, underscoring its status as a premier global sports venue.

History

Construction and opening

The conception of what would become NRG Stadium originated in the late 1990s as a key component of Houston's successful bid to secure an NFL expansion franchise, the Houston Texans, awarded in October 1999 following a $700 million commitment from owner Bob McNair that included stadium development. The project aimed to replace the aging Astrodome and provide a modern venue capable of hosting professional football while accommodating the city's broader event needs. In November 1996, Harris County voters narrowly approved a referendum authorizing a two-cent increase in the hotel occupancy tax to finance the stadium's construction, establishing a public funding mechanism projected initially at $265 million but ultimately totaling $352 million upon completion. This taxpayer-supported approach, primarily through hotel and rental car taxes administered by the Harris County-Houston Sports Authority, covered the majority of costs without direct general obligation bonds. Groundbreaking ceremonies occurred on March 9, 2000, adjacent to the in 's complex, marking the start of a rapid 30-month construction timeline led by general contractor Huber, Hunt & Nichols and Manhatten Construction. The design was handled by a between HOK Sport (now Populous) as the lead architect and Houston Stadium Consultants as architect-of-record, in collaboration with firms like Lockwood, Andrews & Newnam and Hermes Architects for structural and elements. A hallmark innovation was the incorporation of a , making it the first stadium to feature this technology upon opening, allowing for versatile indoor-outdoor configurations. The 1.9-million-square-foot structure emphasized fan amenities, premium seating, and multipurpose flexibility from the outset. NRG Stadium, then known as Reliant Stadium, officially opened on August 24, 2002, hosting its inaugural event—a preseason NFL game between the Houston Texans and Miami Dolphins, which the Dolphins won 24–3 before an announced crowd of 69,432. The venue debuted with an initial seating capacity of 69,500, including 166 luxury suites and expansive club levels designed to enhance spectator experience. Less than a year later, in February 2003, it hosted its first major non-NFL event, the 71st Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, drawing over 1.2 million attendees and solidifying the stadium's role as a premier venue for large-scale livestock exhibitions and performances. This early success underscored the facility's adaptability beyond football, setting the stage for its diverse event hosting in subsequent years.

Renaming and renovations

The stadium, originally named Reliant Stadium upon its opening in 2002, was rebranded as NRG Stadium on March 20, 2014, following NRG Energy's acquisition of and the transfer of the existing agreement, which extends through 2032. In response to ongoing issues with the natural grass surface, including poor growth and player complaints during the 2015 season, the Houston Texans installed at the stadium starting in September 2015, marking a permanent shift from the original grass field. This was upgraded in 2017 with the installation of Hellas Construction's Matrix Helix synthetic turf system, covering 97,000 square feet and designed to enhance player safety through improved shock absorption and reduced abrasion compared to earlier artificial surfaces. Following these field improvements, NRG Stadium underwent significant interior renovations in 2016 and 2017, focusing on modernizing fan amenities to meet contemporary standards ahead of major events like . These upgrades included the overhaul of 16 concession stands with expanded menus and faster service options, reconstruction of four premium club lounges, and enhancements to suite areas for better comfort and technology integration. Additional improvements encompassed restroom modernizations and suite-level upgrades, part of a broader $50 million investment driven by NFL requirements for hosting the , which also covered expansion and luxury seating enhancements. In 2025, NRG Stadium implemented further upgrades to maintain its competitiveness, including the replacement of end-zone videoboards with state-of-the-art LED displays between April and July, at a cost of approximately $35 million funded by Harris County. These changes were accompanied by a new sound system, refreshed food offerings with over 120 menu items, and painting of the 300- and 400-level sections, along with updates to VIP lobbies and flooring to improve aesthetics and accessibility. The project also introduced energy-efficient LED turf lighting upgrades, building on the stadium's pioneering 2014 adoption of LED field illumination as the first venue to do so. Early 2025 saw the release of conceptual plans for a comprehensive $2 billion overhaul of the entire complex over the next 30 years, with an estimated $1.4 billion allocated specifically to NRG Stadium renovations. These proposals, informed by a facility condition assessment, include new premium suites, advanced technology integrations like enhanced digital displays and connectivity, and structural improvements to the exterior and roof. On November 12, 2025, the Harris County Sports and Convention Corp. approved a $55 million capital improvement plan as the initial phase, including upgrades to videoboards, locker rooms, lighting, audio, broadcast , and ahead of the , though final approval and funding for the broader overhaul—potentially involving public and private sources—remain pending as of November 16, 2025.

Hurricane Ike damage

Hurricane Ike made landfall near , on September 13, 2008, as a Category 2 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 110 mph, bringing high winds and to the area. The storm severely impacted Reliant Stadium (now NRG Stadium), where winds exceeding 90 mph near downtown tore off five fabric panels from the , allowing rainwater to flood the interior and causing widespread debris damage. No major structural damage occurred to the building's core, but the incident exposed vulnerabilities in the roof's design, which was warranted for winds up to 110 mph. The damage resulted in an estimated $11 million in repair costs, including panel replacements, interior cleanup, and measures. Initial assessments closed the stadium immediately after the storm, postponing the Houston Texans' season opener against the from September 14 to November 9, 2008; the game was ultimately played at Reliant Stadium once partial repairs allowed safe operations. The facility partially reopened on October 5, 2008, for the Texans' home game against the , with the roof kept open during events while repairs continued. Full roof repairs, ensuring complete functionality, were not completed until February 2009, approximately five months after the hurricane. The hurricane's effects extended to Reliant Park, the broader complex housing the stadium and home to events like RodeoHouston, leading to operational disruptions and cleanup efforts that influenced scheduling for major gatherings in the following months. Although the 2009 proceeded as planned, the damage underscored the need for enhanced resilience in venue . The incident provided key lessons on vulnerabilities in hurricane-prone regions, prompting broader discussions and improvements in weatherproofing for stadium designs to better withstand extreme winds without compromising safety or operations.

Architecture and features

Design and technology

NRG Stadium's , the first of its kind in the , is constructed from Teflon-coated fabric and covers approximately 9 acres, enabling the venue to provide weather protection while allowing and ventilation for events. The roof consists of two large panels that bi-part at the 50-yard line and slide open or closed in about 10 minutes using 40 five-horsepower electric motors, facilitating grass growth for outdoor sports and adaptability to Houston's variable climate. The roof incorporates translucent panels to diffuse daylight throughout the interior, enhancing visibility and energy efficiency by reducing reliance on artificial lighting during daytime events. In 2025, the roof was upgraded with durable PTFE () panels to improve structural resilience and weather resistance ahead of the . The original design was rated to withstand winds up to 110 miles per hour; following damage from in 2008, reinforcements were made to improve integrity, though the roof sustained further damage from Hurricane Beryl in 2024 with winds around 80-90 miles per hour, leading to ongoing repairs. The stadium's advanced HVAC system, tailored for Houston's humid subtropical environment, maintains comfortable conditions for up to 72,000 attendees through efficient cooling and air circulation, supported by upgrades such as optimized cooling towers that contributed to approximately $1.25 million in energy savings over five years in the . In terms of , 2025 renovations introduced 4K LED high-definition videoboards for immersive viewing, alongside a comprehensive network capable of handling over 72,000 simultaneous users and acoustic enhancements for superior event audio. Sustainability efforts include a 221-kilowatt solar array installed across in 2015, which generates to offset operational demands and has contributed to energy cost reductions through combined efficiency measures.

Capacity and seating

NRG Stadium has a standard of 72,220, which can be expanded to 80,000 through the addition of temporary seating for major events such as Super Bowls. The seating is organized into multiple tiers, with the lower bowl (100-level) providing the closest views to the field and comprising the primary spectator area. Above this, the 200-level includes club seating with premium amenities like enhanced comfort and lounge access, while the 300- and 400-level upper decks offer elevated perspectives across the venue. The stadium features 198 luxury suites distributed across various levels, including 78 at the 200 level, 13 at the 300 level, 88 at the 400 level, and 19 at the 800 level, each equipped with private lounges, catering options, and exclusive entry points. Field-level suites enhance proximity to the action for select events. Accessibility is prioritized throughout the venue, with wheelchair-accessible and companion seating available on all levels, including companion seats adjacent to each accessible space. The facility includes 16 passenger elevators serving every level, four public ADA-compliant ramps, and additional mobility aids such as limited on-site wheelchairs for guest use. In the 2020s, enhancements like a dedicated sensory room at section 133—partnered with KultureCity for sensory-inclusive experiences—and family zones with accessible restrooms were introduced to support diverse needs. The design allows for flexible configurations, particularly in the end zones, where lower seating sections can be removed to accommodate alternative setups such as arenas or motorsports tracks, enabling a 125,000-square-foot open floor space for non-football events.

Sports events

Professional

NRG Stadium has served as the primary home venue for the National Football League's Houston Texans since the team's inaugural season in 2002. The Texans play 8 or 9 regular-season home games annually at the stadium, along with potential playoff contests, consistently drawing average crowds exceeding 70,000 fans per game; for instance, the 2023 season saw an average attendance of 71,193. The field adheres to standard NFL dimensions of 120 yards in length by 53 yards and 1 foot in width, covered by installed in 2015 and optimized for professional play across multiple event types. The end zones feature branding with the Texans' logos, painted for versatility in hosting various competitions. The stadium has hosted several marquee professional football events, underscoring its status as a premier facility. In 2004, NRG Stadium (then Reliant Stadium) was the site of , where the defeated the 32–29 before a crowd of 71,525. It returned to the Super Bowl spotlight in 2017 for , marked by the Patriots' historic 34–28 victory over the in front of 70,807 spectators—the first to extend into . These events highlight the venue's capability to accommodate high-stakes professional matchups under its . Beyond regular-season and playoff games, NRG Stadium's role in professional contributes substantially to the local economy. The Houston Texans alone generated an estimated $1.1 billion in annual economic impact as of 2023 through direct revenues like ticket sales, concessions, and sponsorships tied to stadium events. held by , valued at $300 million over 32 years, further bolster this financial footprint, supporting ongoing operations and renovations.

Rodeo and equestrian events

NRG Stadium has hosted the , recognized as the world's largest indoor show and , annually since the venue's opening in 2003. The event spans 20 days of performances in or , drawing massive crowds for competitions, exhibits, and related activities. In 2025, it set an all-time attendance record with 2,735,695 visitors over the full 23-day run, including preparatory events. To accommodate the rodeo, the stadium's interior is reconfigured into a large by installing specialized dirt flooring over the existing surface and setting up chutes and barriers for events, creating a 125,000-square-foot suitable for competitions such as , , and . This setup supports a tournament-style format with super series, semifinals, wild cards, and championships across eight PRCA-sanctioned events, while the stadium's flexible seating enables adjustments for optimal viewing without altering the overall capacity significantly. Livestock exhibits and junior competitions occur concurrently in adjacent facilities, enhancing the equestrian focus. The generates substantial economic benefits for the region, with the 2024 edition producing a total economic impact of $326 million and overall economic activity of $597 million through visitor spending, vendor contributions, and related sectors. Proceeds from the event fund educational initiatives, awarding $14.6 million in new scholarships in 2024 to support youth in and related fields. The 2025 featured a record payout of $2,533,500 for competing athletes across its events, underscoring its role as one of the richest regular-season rodeos. Beyond the main , NRG Stadium hosts occasional equestrian activities, including qualifiers for (PBR) events integrated into the programming, as well as dedicated horse shows featuring performance competitions. Following damage from in 2008, the stadium underwent extensive repairs that restored its structural integrity, ensuring safe operations for animal-related events without specific documented enhancements to barriers for safety. The lease agreement between RodeoHouston and Harris County for use of NRG Stadium and Park facilities extends through 2032, with ongoing negotiations in 2025 focused on facility upgrades to support future events.

College and amateur sports

NRG Stadium has served as the annual host for the , a postseason FBS game, since its inception in 2006. The event features matchups between teams from the Big 12 and SEC conferences, drawing significant crowds to for late-December contests. For example, the 2024 Kinder's pitted against on December 31. The stadium also hosted the 2024 on January 8, 2024, where the defeated the 34-13 to claim the title, marking NRG's role in the playoff's expanded format as one of the premier venues. In , NRG Stadium has accommodated (UIL) state championship games, particularly for larger classifications like 5A and 6A, with multiple contests held over December weekends in past seasons. It last served as the site for all 11-man UIL championships in , hosting six games that showcased top prep teams and attracted thousands of spectators per matchup. Beyond football, the venue supports other amateur athletic events, including NCAA tournaments. NRG Stadium hosted the 2016 NCAA men's South Regional, part of March Madness, featuring high-stakes games en route to the . Auxiliary spaces within have facilitated wrestling tournaments and meets, such as elements of the 2025 AAU Junior Olympic Games, which include youth competitions in and wrestling across multiple venues from July 22 to August 2. For the 2025 season, NRG Stadium underwent enhancements, including new videoboards and an upgraded sound system, aimed at improving the experience for college and events amid the Playoff's expansion to 12 teams. These updates include provisions for dedicated student sections to foster greater engagement during games. The stadium's role in these events contributes to impact by elevating visibility for local programs. Initiatives like the Texans' football clinics and exclusive ticket offers for student-athletes provide free or discounted access, inspiring participation and development in athletics.

Soccer and international competitions

NRG Stadium is configured for soccer by overlaying its permanent with modular trays of natural grass, creating a temporary pitch that adheres to FIFA's standards for international play. The field measures approximately 105 meters by 68 meters, achieved through the removal of seating in the end zones and corners to provide adequate run-off space around the pitch boundaries, ensuring compliance with FIFA's dimensional requirements of 100-110 meters in and 64-75 meters in width. The stadium has hosted Major League Soccer's premier exhibition event, the , in 2010, where Manchester United defeated the MLS All-Stars 5-2 before a crowd of 70,728 spectators. It has also served as a venue for international competitions under , including multiple Gold Cup matches such as the 2011 semifinal between Honduras and , where Mexico advanced 2-0 after extra time. Temporary grass installations have been used consistently for these events to protect the underlying surface while providing optimal playing conditions. NRG Stadium was selected as one of 16 venues for the , co-hosted by the , , and , and will host seven matches: five in the group stage, one in the round of 32, and one in the round of 16, under the temporary designation of Houston Stadium to align with FIFA's neutral naming policy. As of 2025, preparations include over $100 million in upgrades focused on pitch quality, such as permanent bowl modifications to expand the field area and the installation of a natural grass hybrid surface; enhancements to locker rooms, broadcasting infrastructure, and lighting; and improved and audio systems. Test events for these upgrades include international friendlies and the 2025 final on July 6, 2025, where defeated the 2-1 before a sellout crowd of 70,925. Soccer events at the stadium have drawn significant crowds, exemplified by the 2008 international friendly between the and , which attracted a sellout of 70,103 fans. The allows for weather adaptability during these matches, shielding the temporary grass from environmental factors.

Other events

Concerts and entertainment

NRG Stadium has been a premier venue for major music performances since its opening in 2002, hosting a diverse array of concerts that draw tens of thousands of attendees. Early highlights included country star George Strait's sold-out show in February 2003, which marked one of the first major music events at the then-Reliant Stadium and showcased its capacity for large-scale productions. Over the years, the stadium has welcomed global icons, with configurations adapting to end-stage setups on one side of the field for artists like Taylor Swift or in-the-round arrangements in the stadium's center for immersive experiences, typically utilizing over 40,000 seats in the lower bowl and floor areas. The stadium's plays a key role in enhancing acoustics for concerts, acting as an acoustic blanket when closed to contain sound and reduce external noise interference, while its translucent panels allow natural light during open-roof events for a more open-air feel. This flexibility has made it ideal for year-round shows, with the roof often closed for optimal audio control in high-energy performances. A landmark example is Taylor Swift's in 2023, featuring three consecutive sold-out nights from April 21 to 23 that attracted approximately 187,000 fans total, setting a record as the first artist to play three straight shows at the venue and generating significant buzz for its elaborate stage production spanning Swift's career eras. Notable entertainment events extend beyond traditional concerts, including Beyoncé's headline halftime performance during the Christmas Day game on December 25, 2024, between the Houston Texans and , where she debuted tracks from her Cowboy Carter album live for the first time, captivating a packed stadium audience streamed on . Wrestling spectacles have also drawn crowds, with in April 2009 hosting over 72,000 fans for WWE's flagship event, complete with celebrity appearances and pyrotechnic displays that transformed the field into a . In 2025, the stadium continued its streak of high-profile bookings, including Metallica's stop on June 14, which set an attendance record with over 75,000 fans and featured a dynamic setlist blending classics and new material alongside openers and . Beyoncé returned for her Cowboy Carter Tour on June 28 and 29, delivering two electrifying nights that boosted the local by more than $50 million through visitor spending on hotels, dining, and merchandise. These major weekends exemplify the venue's economic impact, often injecting tens of millions into Houston's hospitality sector per event. Standalone entertainment often ties into the annual , where post-rodeo concerts provide a seamless transition from competition to . Luke Bryan's performance on March 23, 2025, closed out the 93rd edition with over 71,000 attendees, featuring hits like "Play It Again" on the event's iconic rotating star-shaped stage, which spins to ensure visibility from all angles and has become a signature element of these hybrid shows. While focused on , these concerts highlight the stadium's versatility for blended formats.

Motorsports

NRG Stadium has hosted events since its opening as Reliant Stadium in 2002, with the interior space reconfigured to accommodate tracks for high-energy competitions. The venue's and versatile flooring allow for the installation of temporary surfaces, enabling events that draw large crowds for vehicular spectacles. The primary event at NRG Stadium is the series, a professional competition organized by . events have been held annually at the stadium since 2003, beginning with the inaugural show on January 4, 2003, which marked the debut of several trucks including Tom's . These events feature 12,000-pound trucks performing in , two-wheel skills challenges, and freestyle exhibitions on a custom track laid out inside the stadium. The track typically includes jumps, obstacles, and a straight-line lane approximately 200 feet long, designed to fit the stadium's dimensions while maximizing spectator views from all seating levels. Preparing the track requires trucking in approximately 11,000 cubic yards of dirt, sourced locally and mixed for optimal consistency, which is spread across the field over several days by a crew using heavy machinery. The stadium's roof is closed during these events to contain dust and debris, with enhanced ventilation systems helping to manage air quality for attendees. Events often span two days, attracting around 50,000 spectators in total, as seen in the February 2025 show where crowds filled the venue for high-flying stunts by trucks like Grave Digger and . In 2025, visited NRG Stadium multiple times, including the Stadium Championship Series East events on February 1-2 and February 8, as well as the Fall Stadium Series on October 18. These shows highlighted competitive and freestyle performances, with winners like in February and JCB DIGatron in October earning top points through precision driving and aerial maneuvers. Beyond Monster Jam, NRG Stadium serves as a regular venue for the Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship, an off-road motorcycle racing series sanctioned by the American Motorcyclist Association. The stadium has hosted Supercross rounds annually since 2003, typically in January or February as part of the 17-round national tour. These events utilize a similar dirt track setup, featuring supercross tracks with jumps, whoops sections, and rhythm layouts that challenge riders in 450cc and 250cc classes. The 2026 Houston round is scheduled for January 31, continuing the tradition of drawing elite athletes like Jett Lawrence for high-stakes qualifying and main events.

Miscellaneous gatherings

NRG Stadium, integrated within the expansive complex, facilitates a range of conventions and expos by reconfiguring its interior for exhibit purposes, contributing to the park's overall capacity for large-scale gatherings. The annual Offshore Technology Conference (OTC), a key forum for offshore energy professionals, is hosted at and draws over 30,000 attendees from more than 100 countries, featuring technical sessions, exhibitions, and networking opportunities focused on industry innovations. Consumer-oriented shows, including the Houston Boat Show, utilize adjacent venues like the NRG Center to showcase boats, marine equipment, and products, attracting tens of thousands of visitors annually for interactive displays and sales. The stadium's design enables versatile reconfiguration, providing up to 1.9 million square feet of total space suitable for full-floor exhibits and general sessions when the field is cleared. Religious and ceremonial events have also utilized the venue's capacity for communal assemblies. In 2021, during the , NRG Stadium operated as a major mega site under federal and state initiatives, administering between 6,000 and 7,000 doses per day through drive-thru operations to support efforts in the area. Faith-based gatherings, such as the Houston Texans' Faith & Family Night, bring together community groups for inspirational events tied to sports, emphasizing spiritual and family-oriented programming within the stadium. Political rallies have drawn significant crowds, including the 2019 "Howdy Modi" event at NRG Stadium, where U.S. President and Indian Prime Minister addressed approximately 50,000 supporters in a high-profile diplomatic and community summit. The stadium's premium club areas, such as the Directors Club, accommodate smaller-scale corporate meetings and award ceremonies, offering intimate settings for professional networking and recognitions. For instance, the Professional Football Retired Players Association (PFRPA) Champions Banquet has been held in these spaces, honoring former players with dinners and awards presentations. In 2025, as preparations intensify for the —where NRG Stadium will host seven matches—community events like fan zones and activation zones have been organized in the surrounding area to build excitement and engage local residents pre-tournament. For example, on November 12, 2025, the Houston FIFA World Cup 26 Host Committee launched Impact Houston 26, a legacy initiative to manage community programs such as fan zones and activation zones in to build excitement ahead of the tournament.

References

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