Levi’s Stadium $200M overhaul readies venue for Super Bowl and FIFA 2026
Levi’s Stadium is poised to become one of the most visible venues in global sports in 2026. As the only stadium set to host both Super Bowl LX and matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, it represents a rare convergence of two dominant sports cultures: American football and global soccer
This alignment is no coincidence. In anticipation of a high-profile year, the venue has completed a $200 million renovation, one of the most extensive since its opening in 2014. Unveiled during the Concacaf Gold Cup semifinal between Mexico and Honduras in July 2025, the upgrades reflect the stadium’s readiness for a global audience.
Located in Santa Clara and home to the San Francisco 49ers, Levi’s Stadium will serve as a hub for international sports. Just over a decade after opening its gates, it is reasserting itself as a benchmark for modern stadium design and event hosting.
Technology leads the charge with immersive fan upgrades
A defining feature of the renovation is the digital transformation. Levi’s Stadium now features the largest outdoor 4K video boards in the NFL, spanning more than 13,000 square feet across both end zones. These displays elevate both in-person viewing and broadcast quality.
New LED ribbon boards encircle the stadium, enhancing visibility and offering greater flexibility for messaging. Lighting has been upgraded to energy-efficient LED systems, improving field illumination and reducing power consumption.
Connectivity has also improved. With the support of Cisco and Verizon, the stadium now provides Wi-Fi 6 access through more than 1,300 access points, along with robust 5G DAS coverage. This infrastructure supports real-time content sharing and interaction during events.
FIFA-ready turf and advanced infrastructure set new standards
Some of the most significant changes are not immediately visible. The playing surface has been rebuilt to meet FIFA requirements, ensuring player safety, ball consistency, and durability for international matches.
Beneath the turf lies a new network of drainage and ventilation systems that allow the surface to adapt to varying weather conditions. This setup supports both NFL and soccer formats, allowing for a seamless switch between sports without compromising field quality. Engineers worked through the 2024 and 2025 seasons to complete the transformation. The result is a high-performance surface designed for back-to-back global events.
Hospitality redesign: from frictionless food to vineyard views
As expectations for the in-stadium experience evolve, Levi’s Stadium has introduced a series of hospitality upgrades. More than 120 luxury suites have been redesigned with modern finishes and lounge seating.
One of the standout additions is Appellation 49, a rooftop suite experience offering local wine tastings and views of the Santa Clara Valley. This concept blends Northern California’s wine culture with the event-day atmosphere.
The stadium’s concessions have also been reimagined. Frictionless checkout systems allow guests to grab food and beverages without waiting in line. Self-service bars and redesigned patios create a more efficient and relaxed environment. The NetApp-sponsored Owner’s Club has been updated to include private dining, concierge access, and climate-controlled lounges with enhanced audio-visual features.
Hosting both the Super Bowl and FIFA World Cup is a civic milestone, and a financial commitment. California allocated $10 million to support World Cup planning, while the 49ers have pledged to cover an estimated $37 million budget shortfall.
While city officials in Santa Clara have expressed concerns about potential cost overruns, they also recognize the opportunity. Local tourism, business development, and infrastructure investments are expected to benefit from the exposure and foot traffic.
Levi’s Stadium remains LEED Gold certified, one of the few NFL venues to hold that designation. Sustainable features include solar panels, water-reuse systems, and native landscaping. The new LED lighting system is expected to reduce energy use by nearly one-third.