Reliant Stadium Returns to Houston in August 2026

NRG Energy announces the restoration of the iconic Reliant Stadium name after over a decade of using the NRG brand.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 12:54am

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A high-end, photorealistic studio still-life photograph featuring a polished, geometric metal sculpture in the shape of the Reliant Stadium logo, floating on a clean, monochromatic grey background and dramatically lit to symbolize the brand's restoration.The return of the Reliant name to Houston's premier sports and entertainment venue signals the enduring local pride and nostalgia surrounding this iconic brand.Houston Today

NRG Energy, Inc. announced that NRG Stadium and the surrounding NRG Park facilities in Houston will be renamed to Reliant Stadium and Reliant Park in August 2026, following approval by the Harris County Sports & Convention Corporation. This change comes after recent survey results showed that 90% of Houston-area customers support the return to the Reliant Stadium name, which has deep hometown roots.

Why it matters

The Reliant name has been closely tied to the Houston community for over two decades, powering major events like Texans games and the annual RODEOHOUSTON. Restoring the iconic Reliant brand reflects the strong local connection and nostalgia that Houstonians feel towards this landmark venue.

The details

Reliant first appeared on the stadium for its inaugural year in 2002 and was later renamed NRG in 2014 following NRG Energy's acquisition of Reliant's consumer business. As the city prepares to transition to "Houston Stadium" ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the return to the Reliant name will take effect in August 2026, coinciding with the stadium and the Texans' 25th anniversary season.

  • Reliant Stadium first opened in 2002.
  • The stadium was renamed NRG Stadium in 2014.
  • The Reliant name will be restored in August 2026.
  • The change will coincide with the Texans' 25th anniversary season.

The players

NRG Energy, Inc.

A leading provider of electricity, natural gas, and smart home solutions to eight million customers across North America.

Harris County Sports & Convention Corporation

The organization that oversees NRG Park and approved the return of the Reliant name.

Houston Texans

The NFL team that has played its home games at Reliant/NRG Stadium since the team's inaugural season in 2002.

Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

The annual event that has been held at Reliant/NRG facilities for over two decades.

Brad Bentley

Head of NRG Consumer and Reliant.

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What they’re saying

“Houston is Reliant's home, and a name Texans know and trust. For more than two decades, Reliant has powered the moments that bring our community together-from the Texans' first game and hosting two Super Bowls to every unforgettable RODEOHOUSTON® performance in between. Fans have told us what this place means to them. For many, it's always been Reliant Stadium. We heard them loud and clear. Reliant Stadium is back.”

— Brad Bentley, Head of NRG Consumer and Reliant

“As a founding partner of the team, Reliant has been a part of our Houston Texans family from the very beginning. Reliant Stadium has been our home since our first game in 2002 and we can't wait to celebrate 25 seasons of Texans football back where it all began. We are so proud of our longstanding partnership that also extends beyond the field through numerous initiatives, including our Scholarships for Champions Program, which has recognized and awarded scholarships to deserving student-athletes across the greater Houston area over the last two decades.”

— Mike Tomon, Houston Texans President

“For more than two decades, Reliant Stadium, Reliant Center and Reliant Arena have been at the heart of everything we do, serving as the home of our livestock and horse events and the heartbeat of RODEOHOUSTON. Year after year, fans fill the stands to create unforgettable memories, witness history, and come together to celebrate the spirit of our annual event. These venues are more than just a name; they represent a feeling, a tradition, and a shared experience we're incredibly proud to call home.”

— Chris Boleman, President and CEO, Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

What’s next

The transition to the Reliant name will be completed by August 2026, in time for the Texans' 25th anniversary season and the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The takeaway

The restoration of the iconic Reliant name for Houston's premier sports and entertainment venue demonstrates the deep local pride and nostalgia that Houstonians feel towards this landmark. It also highlights the enduring power of a brand that has become synonymous with the city's major events and community spirit over the past two decades.