EV Zug set to begin arena expansion in June – New name revealed

Following the building permit approval earlier this year, preparations for the project are already underway. The first phase focuses on a new southern extension. It will house the new Sportsbar 67, a fan shop, and skate rental for public ice skating on the ground floor. A rooftop terrace accessible during opening hours and a new matchday restaurant on the upper floor will also be part of the expansion. The extension will improve access to the arena and add more room for fans and visitors. Construction is planned to allow EVZ’s 2025-26 season to begin without disruption.

While southern construction begins in 2025, preparatory work is also taking place inside the arena. This includes strengthening the roof, which is necessary for a planned elevation of the rear roof section in summer 2026. Once that is complete, the northern extension will follow, though full work there will not begin until after the roof work is done. As a result, EVZ’s home games in the 2026-27 season are expected to start only in mid-October.

All construction is expected to be completed by late 2027, just in time for EVZ’s 60th anniversary celebrations

The total cost of CHF 60 million is higher than earlier estimates due to added technical upgrades and infrastructure requirements. A large portion of the financing is covered by a CHF 35 million loan from the Canton of Zug, approved in March 2025 and set to become legally binding in June. The remainder will be covered by EVZ through operations, share sales, and naming rights.

EV Zug's CEO Patrick Lengwiler welcomed the financial support: "This financing solution makes the much-needed expansion possible. We’re especially grateful for the canton’s trust and excited to offer our fans and partners new and improved facilities.”

As part of the expansion deal, Zug was granted the right to reassign the arena’s naming rights. After a bidding process, EV Zug's chairman Hans-Peter Strebel secured the rights personally. He will also convert a CHF 10 million loan into a non-repayable contribution. The new name will thus be "OYM hall", named after the elite training center OYM, also backed by Strebel.

“This is a one-time investment in a unique project,” said Strebel. “I wanted to support the club without putting my name on the arena. OYM will benefit from the increased exposure, and so will EV Zug.”