Florida-Georgia football series staying in Jacksonville through 2031 with new deal… See full details..

The storied rivalry between the Florida Gators and the Georgia Bulldogs, known as the “Florida-Georgia” or “World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party,” has been a fixture in college football since 1933. The annual game, traditionally held in Jacksonville, Florida, has seen its future secured through a new agreement that extends the series in the city through the 2031 seaso

🏟️ Renovations Prompt Temporary Relocation

In 2025, Jacksonville’s EverBank Stadium, the longtime host of the rivalry, is undergoing a $1.4 billion renovation project, dubbed the “Stadium of the Future.” This ambitious overhaul includes a canopy for shade, expanded seating capacity, and modernized amenities. Construction is set to begin in early 2025, with the stadium expected to reopen in 2028 .

To accommodate the renovations, the Florida-Georgia game will be temporarily relocated:

• 2026: Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta

• 2027: Raymond James Stadium in Tampa

These venues ensure the continuation of the rivalry while EverBank Stadium undergoes its transforma

🤝 New Agreement Secures Future in Jacksonville

In November 2024, the City of Jacksonville, the University of Florida, and the University of Georgia reached a memorandum of understanding to keep the Florida-Georgia game in Jacksonville through the 2031 season. This agreement outlines financial terms and operational responsibilities

• 2026–2027: The city will pay each school $1.5 million per year, totaling $3 million per team over two years.

• 2028–2029: The city guarantees each school a minimum of $10 million per game.

• 2030–2031: The guarantee increases to $10.5 million per game.

• Travel Stipends: Georgia will receive a $350,000 stipend; Florida will receive $60,000.

• Ticket Sales: Each school must purchase 25,000 to 30,000 tickets per game, with prices averaging at least $250.

• Revenue Sharing: The city retains all revenue from sponsorships, concessions, and parking, while the schools cover team and conference expenses .

This partnership aims to ensure the game’s profitability and continued success in Jacksonville

🌆 Economic Impact and Community Benefits

The Florida-Georgia game is a significant economic driver for Jacksonville. The city’s investment in the stadium renovation is projected to generate over $26 billion in economic impact over the next 30 years . The annual game attracts tens of thousands of fans, boosting local businesses and tourism.

Mayor Donna Deegan emphasized the importance of the game’s return to Jacksonville, stating, “There is shared excitement by all parties for the game to return to Jacksonville in the ‘Stadium of the Future,’ which will be a world-class stadium that meets NFL standards, starting in 2028” .

🏈 A Tradition Continues

The Florida-Georgia rivalry is more than just a football game; it’s a tradition that brings together communities, alumni, and fans. With the new agreement in place, the game is set to continue in Jacksonville through 2031, ensuring that future generations can experience one of college football’s most iconic matchups in a state-of-the-art venue.

As the renovation of EverBank Stadium progresses, anticipation builds for the 2028 season, when the Florida-Georgia game will return to its rightful home, showcasing the rich history and enduring spirit of this legendary rivalry.