Empower Field at Mile High
The Mile High home of the Denver Broncos, where altitude and loud fans create one of the NFL's best home-field advantages.
Empower Field at Mile High is an American football stadium in the western United States, located in Denver, Colorado. Opened in 2001, its primary tenant is the Denver Broncos of the National Football League (NFL), and it replaced the Broncos' original home, Mile High Stadium.
Quick Facts
- Surface
- Kentucky Bluegrass natural grass
Lore & Background
The stadium is nicknamed 'Mile High' due to its predecessor, in reference to Denver's elevation of one mile or 5280 ft above sea level. Given the difficulty of competing at altitude, as well as the notoriously loud fans, the Broncos are known to have one of the best home-field advantages in the NFL. Former tenants include the Denver Outlaws lacrosse team and the Colorado Rapids soccer team. It has also played host to many concerts, and was the venue for Barack Obama's acceptance of the Democratic presidential nomination at the 2008 Democratic National Convention. After only three decades, the venue is expected to be replaced in 2031 by a new stadium in nearby Burnham Yard.
Reader's Guide
The stadium is used primarily for American football games. It is the home field for the Denver Broncos. It has hosted the Denver Outlaws lacrosse team, the Colorado Rapids soccer team, college football rivalry games, high school football state championships, Drum Corps International events, concerts, and a rugby league match between England and New Zealand on June 23, 2018. Concessions are run by Aramark Corporation, which partnered with several Denver restaurants including Frank Bonanno's establishments.
Did You Know?
- A Neil Smith Kansas City Chiefs jersey was buried near the 50-yard line during 2013 renovations, but the Broncos won Super Bowl 50 two years later.
- The stadium's current naming rights are held by Empower, following a temporary name 'Broncos Stadium at Mile High' in 2018-2019.
- Invesco paid $120 million for the original naming rights in 2001, before Sports Authority secured them in August 2011.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Empower Field at Mile High?
It serves as the primary home stadium for the Denver Broncos in the National Football League. Located just north of downtown Denver, Colorado, this venue has hosted games since its construction began in 2001.
How does the elevation affect gameplay?
Sitting at exactly 5,280 feet above sea level, it holds the distinction of being the highest-altitude stadium in professional sports. This thin air creates a unique advantage for home teams while often challenging visiting opponents' conditioning.
What type of playing surface is used?
The field utilizes an artificial surface known as A-Turf Titan, which provides consistent footing regardless of weather conditions. This synthetic material ensures durability and player safety throughout the season.
When was the current stadium structure completed?
The current facility officially opened its doors in 2001, replacing the older Mile High Stadium that served as the franchise's original home. It has since undergone various renovations while remaining the Broncos' permanent base.
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