La Corner Arena will continue to be the home of Hockey Club Lugano for another fourteen years. The black and white club announced this during the season-opening press conference, held at the Casetta Gialla in Porza. The naming rights to the rink, which has borne the logo of the historic Lugano bank since 2018, will remain with Cornèr Banca until 2039, thus consolidating a partnership that in recent years has grown far beyond the mere visibility of the logo.
The agreement confirms the institution, founded in 1952,'s commitment to continuing to invest in the local area, reaffirming a bond with the city that goes beyond hockey. "Our collaboration with HCL," explained CEO Vittorio Cornaro, "has proven solid and professional. With this long-term renewal, we intend to emphasize our closeness to Lugano and its roots."
The central role of the Cornèr Arena
The rink on Via Trevano is not only the stage for National League matches, but also the hub of youth activities and club-related events. Events like "Cornèr Kids on Ice," which brings together hundreds of kids from all over Switzerland, have transformed the Corner Arena into a point of reference also on a social and educational level.
President Vicky Mantegazza, on the eve of her fifteenth season at the helm of the club, emphasized how the stability of such a partnership provides a solid foundation from which to look to the future: "The sporting and financial environment of the National League requires increasingly significant resources. Knowing we can count on a long-term partner allows us to plan with greater peace of mind."
Economic challenges and new strategies
During the media meeting, CEO Marco Werder highlighted the four economic pillars on which HCL intends to build its sustainability: Food & Beverage, Hospitality, Ticketing, and Sponsorship.
In terms of catering, the company admits it needs to close the gap with its competitors, with revenues falling by approximately 700 francs per season. Hence the idea of introducing a more diversified offering, including street food options outside the facility. Hospitality, on the other hand, continues to be a growing segment, with lounge occupancy at 93% and demand continuing to outstrip supply.
Important news comes from the ticketing sector: the digital card will allow season ticket holders to easily transfer tickets, improving use and reducing empty seats in the stands. Corner Arena.
Sponsorship, however, remains the most flourishing area. The club recently renewed its agreement with Winteler Mercedes AMG and welcomed two new international brands, VAR Group and Giuseppe Citterio, who have chosen Lugano as their gateway to the world of Swiss hockey.
The field and sporting objectives
After finishing thirteenth in last season's regular season, Hockey Club Lugano is called upon to react. General Manager Janick Steinmann emphasized the need to build a new "performance culture," the fruit of daily work and patience. The immediate goal is to return to the playoffs, laying the foundation for a gradual relaunch.
Cornèr Bank: Local Roots and an International Vision
The renewed bond with the Corner Arena reflects the philosophy of Cornèr Bank Ltd., a private and independent banking group operating in multiple sectors, from private banking to payment cards and online trading. With over a thousand employees and a consolidated presence in several Swiss and European cities, the institution remains firmly anchored in Lugano, where it has its historical roots.
Further information is available on the official website cornergroup.ch.
