The Florida Gators’ annual game against the Georgia Bulldogs will relocate from Jacksonville’s EverBank Stadium to Atlanta and Tampa for the 2026 and 2027 seasons due to upcoming renovations at the Jacksonville venue, according to a report by Brett McMurphy of Action Network.
The temporary move follows discussions about the future location of the rivalry series, as Jacksonville’s EverBank Stadium undergoes a $1.4 billion renovation. McMurphy noted that Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium and Tampa’s Raymond James Stadium will host the game before it returns to Jacksonville in 2028.
Florida head coach Billy Napier expressed enthusiasm about the new venues, calling both “great venues” that will be well-organized. He also highlighted the financial benefits this game provides to both athletic programs, making the temporary shift an exciting opportunity.
Georgia’s head coach, Kirby Smart, echoed similar sentiments, commending Jacksonville and other involved parties for effectively managing the transition. Smart suggested the change could provide a unique experience and potentially offer insights from playing in two different locations.
The series’ location has been a point of debate, with some advocating for a switch to a home-and-home format. The last time the teams played in each other’s stadiums was in 1994 and 1995, also due to renovations at EverBank Stadium. However, Napier acknowledged the decision to keep the game neutral is largely revenue-driven.
“We know the amount of revenue generated by this neutral-site game is significant,” Napier remarked, indicating the financial aspect plays a major role in the decision-making.
The 2024 Florida-Georgia game will still take place in Jacksonville, kicking off at 3:30 p.m. and airing on ABC.
