Illinois Athletics Lands Major Sponsorship with Caterpillar Inc.

The University of Illinois has announced a new corporate sponsorship deal with Caterpillar Inc., one of the world's largest manufacturers of construction equipment. The multi-year agreement, facilitated by Learfield, will feature Caterpillar logos on the 25-yard lines of Zuppke Field at Gies Memorial Stadium.

Caterpillar is headquartered in Deerfield, Illinois, and has a significant presence in the state with over 17,000 employees. The company's connection to the University of Illinois dates back years, with former Illini football player and program benefactor Stu Levenick having worked at CAT for 38 years.

Illinois athletics director Josh Whitman said, 'We are proud to align with Caterpillar, a company, like the University, with a long and storied connection to the great state of Illinois.'

The deal is seen as a significant boost to the university's finances, which continue to be impacted by rising roster costs in the pay-for-play era of college athletics. Learfield president Kim Damron stated that 'Josh and his team at Illinois Athletics have significant momentum right now, which is opening the door for incredible opportunities with new brand partners.'