Former Home of Lakers, Kings Becomes Kia Forum

The former home of the Los Angeles Lakers during its 1980s Showtime era as well as the Los Angeles Kings in Wayne Gretzky’s prime has a new name after a sponsorship deal with the Forum of Inglewood and Kia has been announced.

The Kia Forum becomes the naming rights and official automotive partner of the arena. It has been a sports and entertainment destination for 55 years and was presented with the L.A. Conservancy Preservation Award in 2014.

“Kia America is proud of our history in Southern California going back to the establishment of our US Headquarters here in 1992 and so we all celebrate now being part of one of the most historic, and emotionally-connected live entertainment and sports venues in California — if not the world,” said Russell Wager, vice president, marketing, Kia America. “We are thrilled to be a part of the entertainment and excitement of live music and events at the Kia Forum moving forward.”

Kia’s partnership will include new outdoor and indoor signage, the installation of EV charging stations and Kia vehicle displays. Also coming soon is the “Kia Club,” hospitality lounge.

“We’re proud to partner with Kia and weave together our history with an innovative future, while continuing our dedication to the SoCal community,” said Geni Lincoln, general manager and senior vice president, live events at the Kia Forum. “We look forward to merging the entertainment and automotive industries, broadening our mutual commitments to diversity, sustainability, and creativity.”