LEXINGTON, Ky. — University of Kentucky president Eli Capilouto announced a long-term partnership with Kroger on Monday afternoon. As part of the deal, Commonwealth Stadium will be named Kroger Field.

“This is an unprecedented partnership that pairs two iconic brands – UK and Kroger – whose reach extends throughout the Commonwealth and far beyond our borders,” Capilouto said. “Kroger shares our mission to serve Kentucky. And this partnership tangibly advances that mission, as evidenced by what it will allow us to do on our campus, but also as Kroger embarks on an ambitious effort to enhance health and wellness throughout Kentucky.”

Kentucky became the first school in the Southeastern Conference to name its football stadium after a corporate sponsor. The deal, between JMI and Kroger, begins at approximately $1.85 million annually with a term of up to 12 years.

“Three years ago, we had this day in mind when we reached our new multimedia rights agreement with JMI Sports,” Athletics Director Mitch Barnhart said. “We are proud to have a partner in Kroger that shares our commitment to making this state and university the best they can be. This partnership goes well beyond the naming of Kroger Field and we are excited to see the good it will do for years to come.”

Barnhart said former Kentucky athletic director C.M. Newton will still be honored at the stadium. The new name will be C.M. Newton Grounds at Kroger Field.