MKRob Sports

Dolphin Stadium could be renamed LandShark Stadium for a beer with ties to singer Jimmy Buffett, a source said Friday.

LandShark Lager, brewed by Anheuser-Busch, was created in partnership with Buffett and his successful Margaritaville restaurant enterprise. Margaritaville, too, could have a presence at the stadium as part of a plan to enhance the fan experience.

Stadium officials and Miami Dolphins owner Stephen M. Ross, who took majority ownership of the team and stadium in January, refused to comment, but a news conference complete with Buffett and a live music performance is scheduled for Friday.

Buffett and Ross have been discussing a business opportunity, but Buffett wasn’t revealing anything early.

“You’re going to find out real soon,” Buffett said at Monday’s Miami Heat playoff game. “Real soon. It’s going to be great.”

Last month during a meeting with reporters, Ross said he was exchanging contracts with companies to do business at the stadium.

“It’s going to be what is this area about, it’s about entertainment lifestyle, and really showcasing and having people experience that, and having people feel good about what South Florida is all about,” Ross said at the time.

It’s likely the LandShark deal will be only a short-term branding opportunity, perhaps for one season. It is unclear if it will be in place for the Super Bowl next February.

Dolphin Stadium opened in 1987 as Joe Robbie Stadium, but became Pro Player Stadium in 1996 and Dolphins Stadium in 2005. It dropped the “s” the following year.

Stadium officials have tried to peddle the naming rights for years, but have said the process has become increasingly difficult during the recession. A short-term deal could allow for the economy to recover, meaning the stadium might be able to sell the rights for a higher price in the future.