The 40/40 Club, founded by rap mogul Jay-Z, is poised for a remarkable comeback, promising a fresh take on its celebrated legacy. While a temporary iteration of the club will captivate attendees at Fanatics Fest in New York City, plans for a permanent location are already well underway.
Sheldon Robinson, the club’s vice president of operations, told US Weekly in an exclusive interview that the search for the perfect location has been narrowed down. “It’s always been the plan to open a new spot,” Robinson said. “Finding the right location that makes sense to the brand is key, and that takes some time. We’ve narrowed it down to our last few choices and now we’re in the negotiation phase,” and begin construction by the end of 2024, with a grand opening slated for 2025. 2023 after an illustrious two-decade run, the artist is deeply invested in ensuring the club’s continuity as a testament to his enduring influence.
Robinson emphasized Jay-Z’s hands-on approach, revealing that the music icon has been “very involved” throughout the process. “Jay definitely wants to keep it as part of his legacy,” Robinson affirmed, adding that Jay-Z has actively participated in site visits and strategic meetings to help shape the club’s future.
The 40/40 Club is known for its unique blend of sports and entertainment. Robinson emphasized this defining characteristic, saying, “It is all the reasons that Jay[-Z] and his partners originally opened the club. They wanted to create an environment where guests have this sense of luxury, good service, good food, while watching their favorite sports team play, and also listening to their favorite artists. It’s combining sports and music… and we’re gonna remain consistent.”
A taste of the legendary atmosphere awaits guests at Fanatics Fest. The exclusive pop-up lounge, a collaboration with Fanatics Sportsbook, promises a nostalgic journey through the rich history of the 40/40 Club. Hinting at the immersive experience, Robinson said, “You’re going to feel like you’re walking into the club, a renewed version of it. Similar feel, similar texture. Seeing the cool jerseys walking down our Hall of Fame wall like we had on the second floor. Seeing the champagne tower above the main bar. The gigantic screens, as well. We’ll have all the same touches that people grew used to in the old club.”