Elon Musk’s Bold Proposal to Rename Wrigley Field Rejected by Cubs Owner Tom Ricketts
In a move that stirred both excitement and outrage across the baseball world, tech mogul Elon Musk reportedly offered a lucrative long-term sponsorship deal to the Chicago Cubs — with one major condition: rename the historic Wrigley Field to Tesla Field and redesign the team’s classic jerseys with Tesla branding. The proposal, though financially generous, was swiftly rejected by Cubs owner Tom Ricketts.
According to insiders familiar with the discussions, Musk’s offer included a multi-year sponsorship deal reportedly worth over $500 million, which would have made it one of the most expensive naming rights agreements in sports history. Alongside the name change, Musk’s vision included futuristic redesigns of Cubs uniforms, integrating Tesla’s sleek, modern aesthetic and possibly even smart-fabric technology developed by Tesla engineers.
However, Ricketts turned down the proposal, citing the “irreplaceable legacy and cultural significance” of Wrigley Field — a stadium affectionately known as “The Friendly Confines” that has stood since 1914.
“Wrigley Field isn’t just a ballpark — it’s a living monument to the history of baseball and the spirit of Chicago,” Ricketts said in a statement. “No amount of money can replace what it means to the fans, to the city, and to the game itself.”
Fans echoed this sentiment on social media, with hashtags like #SaveWrigley and #KeepItClassic trending in the wake of the news. While some acknowledged the financial benefits the deal could have brought to the team, many were adamant that Wrigley’s heritage must be preserved.
Musk, never shy of bold ventures or controversial ideas, reportedly responded to the rejection in a now-deleted post on X (formerly Twitter), writing: “Guess nostalgia is worth more than progress. Respect.”
The proposal is the latest in Musk’s ongoing efforts to merge technology and culture, having already disrupted the auto, aerospace, and digital communication industries. Some speculate this move could signal Musk’s broader interest in professional sports — or at the very least, a desire to align Tesla’s brand with iconic institutions.
Still, Ricketts and the Cubs remain steadfast. The team continues to invest in renovations and enhancements at Wrigley while keeping its iconic charm intact.
For now, Chicago fans can rest easy knowing that Wrigley Field will keep its name — and the Cubs will keep their classic pinstripes — as tradition triumphs over transformation.
