NHL ice hockey team the Anaheim Ducks has reached an agreement with the local council to continue playing in the Californian city until at least 2048.
The deal will ensure that the Ducks will continue to play at the 17,000-seat Honda Center for the foreseeable future.
The agreement will also see the team retain the name of Anaheim Ducks for the duration of the partnership. The team had five years remaining on its current agreement with Anaheim City Council.
Ducks owners Henry and Susan Samueli said: “We are certainly thrilled that our Ducks have a strong and secure future here in Anaheim and are excited to further enhance our partnership with the city and its residents. We believe that Anaheim is a truly special place and appreciate the city’s clear commitment to remain a leading sports and entertainment destination.”
The Ducks have played in Anaheim since 1992, when the NHL awarded a franchise to the Disney Corporation and the city. The Samuelis purchased the Ducks in 2005 and two years later the team became California’s first Stanley Cup champion.
More than 18 million fans have turned out at Honda Center over the past 25 years, with the Ducks playing to an average capacity of 92 per cent.
Honda Center also hosted NBA basketball team the Los Angeles Clippers from 1994 to 1999 and has staged a range of other sporting events and music concerts since opening. Japanese automotive manufacturer Honda has held naming rights to the venue since 2006.
Image: TopherSees
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