BigBear.ai grabs naming rights to Commanders training facility

McLean-based government tech contractor BigBear.ai last week announced that it partnered with the Washington Commanders football team and secured the rights to name the team’s training facility in Ashburn.

Now named the BigBear.ai Performance Center, the 162-acre training complex houses three grass fields, an indoor turf field, draft room, team meeting rooms, full strength training and recovery facilities and an in-house content studio.

But the partnership doesn’t end there, as BigBear.ai branding will be featured across the fifth-floor suite level of Northwest Stadium, at suites entrances to the stadium, on the team’s practice jerseys and on other team assets.

“BigBear.ai is going on offense, and this partnership exemplifies our strategy” said BigBear.ai CEO Kevin McAleenan in a statement. “We’re stepping onto the national stage with one of the NFL‘s most recognized franchises — an organization that shares our deep dedication to innovation and excellence. Our partnership marks the first in a series of decisive moves we are taking to strengthen our position and unlock the next chapter of growth.”

The terms of the deal were not disclosed. BigBear.ai says it is looking for ways to use the company’s technology to enhance the fan experience.

Commanders President Mark Clouse says he was “excited” about the partnership.

“BigBear.ai has been a proud part of this region, delivering innovation and impact from right here in our own backyard,” Clouse said. “We have been focused on building momentum across every facet of the organization, and our partnership represents the next step in advancing performance, progress, and meaningful engagement with our fans and community.”

Headquartered in McLean, BigBear.ai is a federal contractor that provides artificial intelligence technology and services for defense, national security and critical infrastructure. The company earned $158.2 million in revenue in 2024, up from $155.2 million in revenue in 2023.

The Ashburn-based Commanders were founded in 1932 and are one of the original members of the NFL’s Eastern Division. Last month, President Donald Trump threatened to hold up a new stadium deal for the team if it did not restore its old name of the Washington Redskins, which is considered offensive to Native Americans.