Audi Field
Washington, United States
Capacity
4200
About this place
History
CareFirst Arena opened in 2018 under its original name, the Entertainment and Sports Arena. It was developed as part of a broader urban regeneration project aimed at revitalizing the Congress Heights area. The arena became the home of the Washington Mystics of the WNBA, as well as the Capital City Go-Go, the NBA G League affiliate of the Washington Wizards. In 2023, the venue was renamed following a naming rights agreement with CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield.
Architecture
The arena has a capacity of around 4,200 spectators, making it an intimate venue designed primarily for basketball and indoor events. Its modern design focuses on fan proximity to the court, creating a close and engaging atmosphere. The facility includes training courts, locker rooms, media spaces, and flexible layouts suitable for esports competitions, concerts, and community events.
Location
CareFirst Arena is located in the Congress Heights neighborhood of Washington, D.C., near the city’s southeastern border. It is accessible via the Congress Heights Metro station on the Green Line, as well as local bus routes. The arena’s location is central to ongoing development efforts in the area, positioning it as a community-focused venue rather than a downtown megastructure.
What is CareFirst?
The arena is named after CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, a major health insurance provider serving the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States. The naming partnership reflects the company’s regional presence and its involvement in local community initiatives.
Why the Arena Matters
CareFirst Arena stands out for its community-driven purpose. Unlike large downtown arenas, it was designed to support neighborhood development, provide opportunities for women’s professional sports through the WNBA, and host emerging entertainment formats such as esports. Its role in supporting local engagement makes it a unique model among modern American arenas.
