Wigan Athletic’s JJB Stadium is set to be renamed the DW Stadium from August 1, 2009. JJB Sports, founded by the club’s chairman Dave Whelan, had the naming rights of the stadium for 10 years starting from 1999, but the deal will not be renewed. Whelan, who later sold his interest in JJB, recently acquired the stricken sports chain’s 53 strong health club chain and its 52 stores for £83.4m, and renamed it DW Sports Fitness.
The JJB Stadium was inaugurated by current Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson in 1999. It was built by architect Alfred McAlpine and has a capacity of 25,135. It is also the home ground of rugby league team Wigan Warriors. Prior to the JJB, the Latics used to play their home games at Springfield Park.