DC United have announced Audi of America as the naming rights sponsor for their new stadium, which is set to open in 2018, reports, www.sportspromedia.com/.

Audi Field, as the 20,000-seat venue will be known, is due to break ground in the first quarter of 2017, located in southwest Washington DC. Part of a wider US$350 million development project, it will feature 31 luxury suites and 500,000 square feet of mixed-use retail and residential space.

According to Bloomberg, Audi's deal will run for 'at least a decade' and is thought to be 'one of the three richest naming-rights deals in MLS'. Financial terms have not been formally disclosed.

"Audi has transcended the automobile industry and fully embraced the culture of soccer, especially in MLS," Jason Levien, DC United's managing general partner, said in a statement.

"We couldn't think of a better partner to name our stadium and we look forward to forging extraordinary memories for years to come at Audi Field."

Audi is currently the official automotive partner of MLS, having signed a four-year deal with the league in 2015. The company's American headquarters are located in Herndon, Virginia, 25 miles east of RFK Stadium, DC United's current home in southeast Washington DC.

"We are excited to work with DC United and to continue our commitment to soccer in America as well as here in our own backyard," said Loren Angelo, the vice president of marketing for Audi of America.

"This commitment allows Audi to connect with passionate soccer enthusiasts of all ages and the greater community through unique experiences that further elevate their excitement in America's fastest growing sport."