University of Phoenix Stadium

The retractable roof at the University of Phoenix Stadium is comprised of two 180-feet long by 240-feet wide retractable panels close to allow for air conditioning during the hot summer months and open during the cooler months to take advantage of the Valley's abundant sunshine. The fabric roof allows light to fill the stadium and provides an open, airy feel even when the roof panels are closed. The roof system is designed to close in approximately 12 minutes. University of Phoenix Stadium features a unique rollout natural-grass playing field, contained in a single tray measuring 234 feet wide by 403 feet long and weighing a hefty 18.9 million pounds. It is first completely retractable field in North America. It is positioned inside the stadium on game days to offer the preferred natural-grass playing surface for football and outside the stadium the remaining 350+ days of the year to receive the needed sunlight and water to grow. A total of 462 steel wheels, riding on 13 parallel steel rails are used to slide the field tray in and out of the facility.

Construction of University of Phoenix Stadium began in July 2003. Originally expected to be completed in time for the 2005 NFL season, the stadium opened on August 12, 2006, when the Cardinals played the Pittsburgh Steelers in a preseason game. The Cardinals played their inaugural first game at the stadium when they hosted the San Francisco 49ers on September 10, 2006. The new stadium has a very modern, futuristic look and seats 63,000 fans for football. The capacity can be expanded to 72,800 for other events at the stadium including the Super Bowl. Not only is the stadium the home of the Arizona Cardinals, but it has hosted the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl, the Super Bowl in 2008  and NCAA Final Four Championships. During the first month of its opening, the facility was known as Cardinals Stadium. In September 2006, the University of Phoenix purchased the naming rights for 20 years.