The Washington Commanders’ long-standing aspirations for a new home stadium at the historic RFK Stadium site in Washington D.C. have moved significantly closer to reality, even as the process navigates complex political terrain, including unexpected pressure from former President Donald Trump regarding the team’s controversial nickname.
On a pivotal Friday, the D.C. Council cast a decisive 9-3 vote in favor of legislation that greenlights the redevelopment of the iconic RFK site. This crucial approval marks a major stride forward for the Commanders, though the bill still requires a second council vote before it can be sent to Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser, who had initiated efforts to secure the team’s return to the District earlier in the year. The final legislative hurdle is anticipated on September 17th.
The current momentum builds upon an agreement struck back in April, when Mayor Bowser, alongside Washington Commanders controlling owner Josh Harris and NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, announced a consensus with D.C. officials concerning the utilization of the old RFK Stadium grounds. This significant pact was later celebrated with a joint visit to the Oval Office, reinforcing the high-level backing for the project.
The approved proposal outlines an ambitious $3.7 billion redevelopment initiative that extends far beyond just a new state-of-the-art stadium. The comprehensive plan envisions the creation of 6,000 new housing units, diverse retail spaces, and expansive parkland, promising a transformative revitalization for a key part of the nation’s capital. Furthermore, Washington D.C. is slated to host the NFL Draft on the National Mall in 2027, adding another layer of prestige to the city’s burgeoning sports landscape.
Expressing profound satisfaction with the council’s decision, Commanders owner Josh Harris released a statement highlighting the sentimental and strategic importance of the move. “Today’s approval by the Council is transformational for D.C. and brings the Commanders back to our spiritual home,” Harris stated. “Like many fans, RFK was the site of memories that fueled my love for this team and this city. Now we’re closer than ever to reigniting that energy for a new generation.”
Harris further underscored the broader impact of the project, emphasizing its significance beyond mere athletics. “This is a historic moment. This project is about more than delivering a world-class stadium worthy of our players, fans and the region. It’s about revitalizing a critical part of our city, creating thousands of jobs and unlocking long-term economic benefits for the district. We look forward to working with our fans, residents, community leaders and elected officials to deliver on this vision.”
Community advocacy group RFK Now!, which actively rallied support for the Commanders’ return to the site, also voiced its commendation for the council’s responsive vote. Malcom Fox, executive director of Opportunity DC and a key organizer for RFK Now!, stated in a news release, “We are pleased that the Council listened to DC residents and advanced a great deal for our city. Just a few years ago, bringing the Commanders home seemed impossible. With today’s vote, we’re on track to secure the largest private investment in DC history. This is an enormous win that will generate opportunity in Ward 7 and across the District for decades to come.”
However, the path to a new stadium has not been without its political obstacles, most notably a public intervention in July from former President Donald Trump. Trump publicly threatened to impede any stadium deal in Washington D.C. if the Commanders refused to revert to their former “Redskins” name, a moniker he believes is superior to the current “Commanders.” He articulated his stance on Truth Social, writing, “I may put a restriction on them that if they don’t change the name back to the original ‘Washington Redskins,’ and get rid of the ridiculous moniker, ‘Washington Commanders,’ I won’t make a deal for them to build a Stadium in Washington. The Team would be much more valuable, and the Deal would be more exciting for everyone.” He further added during an interview, “I don’t even know what the hell their last name is. It’s Commanders or something? Is it Commanders? Commanders, it’s not a good name.” This ongoing debate adds a unique political dimension to the Commanders’ stadium aspirations, highlighting the intertwined nature of sports, politics, and urban development.
