The Oakland Athletics have appointed Marc Badain as their new team president, succeeding Dave Kaval, who resigned in December 2024. Badain, a former executive with the NFL’s Las Vegas Raiders, played a pivotal role in the team’s relocation to Las Vegas and the development of Allegiant Stadium.
Badain began his career with the Raiders as a summer intern in 1991, eventually rising to chief financial officer and later team president in 2015. His tenure was marked by his instrumental efforts in securing the Raiders’ move from Oakland to Las Vegas, culminating in the completion of Allegiant Stadium. He resigned from the Raiders in July 2021, stating that, after completing the move and stadium project, it was time to pursue other endeavors.
Following his departure from the Raiders, Badain joined Oak View Group in June 2022 as president of their Las Vegas venue division, focusing on developing sports and entertainment venues in the area. His experience in navigating team relocations and stadium projects positions him well for his new role with the Athletics, who are in the process of relocating to Las Vegas.
Dave Kaval, who served as the Athletics’ president since 2016, was a central figure in the team’s efforts to secure a new ballpark in Oakland. Despite initial plans for a waterfront stadium at Howard Terminal, negotiations with the city faced numerous challenges, leading the team to explore relocation options. In April 2023, the Athletics announced a land deal to build a stadium in Las Vegas, signaling the end of their 56-year tenure in Oakland. Kaval resigned in December 2024 to pursue new business opportunities in California.
The hiring of Badain reflects the Athletics’ commitment to a smooth transition to Las Vegas. His expertise in team relocations and stadium development is expected to be invaluable as the franchise establishes its new presence in the city. This move underscores a continued trend of professional sports teams relocating to Las Vegas, following the successful transitions of the Raiders and the NHL’s Golden Knights.
As the Athletics embark on this new chapter, Badain’s leadership will be crucial in navigating the complexities of relocation, building a state-of-the-art stadium, and fostering a strong connection with the Las Vegas community. Fans and stakeholders alike will be watching closely as the team lays down new roots in the Entertainment Capital of the World.
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