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Fans get situated before an NCAA Football game between the Florida Gators and the Georgia Bulldogs Saturday, Oct. 28, 2023 at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Fla. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]
Negotiations have concluded and speculation has become fact as the University of Florida and Georgia announced its future site schedule for the annual rivalry game through 2031 on Friday.
The game will move to the neutral sites of Atlanta in 2026 and Tampa in 2027 once the current contract with the City of Jacksonville ends next year and renovations begin on EverBank Stadium, according to the schools, Tampa Bay Sports Commission and Mercedes Benz Stadium.
Following the two-year break, the rivalry returns to Jacksonville at the “Stadium of the Future” from 2028 to 2031.
“The Florida-Georgia Game has enjoyed a longstanding and special relationship with the City of Jacksonville, and we are pleased to continue one of college football’s great traditions there in 2028 once the impressive renovations to EverBank Stadium are complete,” said Florida Athletics Director Scott Stricklin.
“For 2026 and 2027, the chance to continue the neutral site history of the series, while also maximizing revenue opportunities that are so critical during this transformative time in college athletics, make playing games in Atlanta and Tampa incredibly attractive.
“Both cities are special to Gator fans and offer venues that will provide wonderful experiences for both fans and players.”
The game last took place in Tampa more than 100 years ago, when the Gators and Bulldogs met for just the third time. Since then, a historic rivalry has formed, primarily being played in Jacksonville, a middle-ground area for the two Southeastern Conference powers.
“We are honored to extend the time-honored tradition of the Florida-Georgia rivalry game in Jacksonville for…
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/florida-georgia-rivalry-return-jacksonville-190407305.html
Author : Gators Wire
Publish date : 2024-11-01 19:04:07
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