DONE DEAL: Oklahoma Sooners Unveil New State-of-the-Art, $8.3 Billion Renovation to Sooners Stadium, Redefining Standard with Cutting-Edge Technology, Luxury Suites, and Expanded Seating for a First-Class Fan Experience
NORMAN, OK — May 18, 2025 — In a historic move that is sending shockwaves through the college football world, the University of Oklahoma has officially announced a massive, $8.3 billion renovation to Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Dubbed the most ambitious stadium upgrade in NCAA history, the project promises to transform the Sooners’ legendary home into a futuristic, world-class sports and entertainment venue.
University President Joseph Harroz Jr., alongside Athletic Director Joe Castiglione and head coach Brent Venables, unveiled the detailed plans on Saturday, calling the renovation a “monumental investment in our fans, our athletes, and the legacy of Oklahoma football.”
“This isn’t just a stadium renovation,” Harroz said. “It’s a reimagining of the entire fan experience. We are creating the future of college football right here in Norman.”
The $8.3 billion overhaul, privately funded through a mix of donor contributions, sponsorships, and long-term partnerships, will introduce jaw-dropping features, including:
Increased seating capacity to 112,000, making it the largest stadium in the Big 12 and among the top five in the nation.
Over 200 new luxury suites and VIP skyboxes, complete with concierge service, private lounges, and panoramic views.
A fully digitized fan experience, including augmented reality (AR) integrations, a stadium-wide 5G network, and interactive digital displays that offer real-time stats, replays, and social media interaction.
Climate-controlled seating zones, a first in college football, ensuring fan comfort during both early fall heat and late-season cold.
The “Sooner SkyDeck,” a rooftop fan zone with bars, food trucks, live entertainment, and postgame fireworks shows.
An upgraded SoonerVision media center with the world’s largest collegiate jumbotron, spanning 360 degrees and utilizing 16K resolution.
Sustainable architecture, powered by solar panels, recycled water systems, and carbon-neutral operations — setting a new green standard in stadium design.
Construction is set to begin in early 2026 and will be carried out in phases to minimize disruption to game-day operations. Full completion is projected for the 2028 season.
Coach Venables expressed excitement about the impact this will have on recruiting and team morale. “This is a game-changer,” he said. “When recruits walk in and see this place, they’ll know they’re stepping into the future of football.”
The news has been met with overwhelming enthusiasm from alumni, boosters, and fans alike. Social media exploded with excitement, with #SoonerStadium trending nationwide within minutes of the announcement.
Longtime season ticket holder Sharon Meyers called it “a dream come true,” adding, “We’ve always known OU football was elite, but this puts us in another stratosphere.”
The renovation is seen as a bold statement from Oklahoma as it prepares for its continued integration into the Southeastern Conference (SEC). It positions the Sooners not only as perennial football contenders but as national leaders in fan experience, infrastructure, and innovation.
“This is more than just bricks and steel,” Castiglione said. “It’s a testament to the Sooner spirit — bold, proud, and ready for what’s next.”
As the sun sets on the old and rises on the new, one thing is certain: the Oklahoma Sooners aren’t just playing for today — they’re building the future of college football.