The legendary Florida-Georgia rivalry game is set to take a temporary break from its traditional Jacksonville home as EverBank Stadium undergoes a $1.4 billion renovation. During this time, the annual showdown will take place at prominent NFL venues. In 2026, fans can expect to see the clash at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, while the game heads to Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida, the following year. The game is anticipated to return to Jacksonville under a new multiyear contract starting in 2028.
Confirmed Plans for Temporary Relocation
The decision to relocate the Florida-Georgia rivalry was first reported by Action Network and later confirmed by Florida head coach Billy Napier. Expressing excitement over the change, Napier said, “We’re excited about the opportunity to play in both Atlanta and Tampa, both great venues, both will be well-run operations.” Napier acknowledged the game’s financial impact, emphasizing the revenue it generates for both athletic departments and the uniqueness of the new locations.
Rich Traditions and Iconic Mascots
The fierce rivalry is further amplified by the presence of iconic team mascots like Florida’s Albert Gator and Georgia’s Uga XI, whose enthusiastic appearances bring additional spirit to the event. The annual clash of mascots and fans has become a symbol of this competitive tradition, which has captivated college football enthusiasts since 1933.
Financial Incentives Drive Neutral-Site Games
For financial reasons, both schools opted to keep “The World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party” at neutral venues rather than campus locations. Playing at high-profile venues allows for greater revenue generation. While Atlanta was chosen as Georgia’s home game location for 2026, several Florida cities, including Orlando, Miami, and Tampa, bid for the 2027 game. The upcoming Jacksonville renovation follows a similar relocation in the early 1990s when the game briefly moved to Gainesville and Athens.
Recruiting and Campus Game Debate
Georgia head coach Kirby Smart has long expressed interest in moving the rivalry back to campuses to support recruiting efforts. Due to NCAA rules, coaches cannot have direct contact with recruits at neutral sites, although they can still provide tickets for them. However, Smart noted that all parties involved managed the transition effectively, and he is optimistic about the unique experience of playing at two different locations during the renovation period.
Financial Gains Expected from Jacksonville
Jacksonville’s future payouts to both schools are expected to rise significantly, with the current agreement providing roughly $3 million to each institution. This amount includes a guaranteed $1.5 million plus a share of ticket revenue and concessions. Additionally, Georgia receives an annual subsidy of $350,000 to cover travel expenses, while Florida receives $60,000, as the Gators do not require flights. Despite these benefits, playing a home-and-home series would yield less revenue than a neutral-site game, further reinforcing the financial benefits of keeping the game in Jacksonville.
Preserving Tradition and Revenue
Ultimately, both schools recognize the historical and financial value of maintaining a neutral site for the rivalry game. Napier explained, “Kirby and I probably both agree that it’d be awesome to play home and home, but we also know there’s a tremendous amount of revenue created by having this game in a neutral site.” The historic context and revenue opportunities presented by the neutral venue have ultimately guided the decision, ensuring the continued success of this iconic rivalry.WFLA initially published the story.
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