A New Chapter for the Florida‑Georgia Rivalry
Tampa will welcome the next chapter of the storied Georgia‑Florida football rivalry in 2027, marking the first time the contest has been staged in the city since 1919. The decision follows two seasons spent in Atlanta and Jacksonville, where the game was moved to accommodate stadium renovations in Jacksonville. While the rivalry has been a Jacksonville fixture since 1933, the upcoming move reflects a broader strategy to rotate the event and showcase different host cities.
The Tampa Bay Sports Commission, led by executive director Lanness Robinson, a lifelong Georgia Bulldogs fan who was born and raised in Tampa, is spearheading the effort. Robinson, who has served on the commission’s board for 18 years and twice chaired it, says the city will add a “Tampa spin” that highlights its beaches, Riverwalk and vibrant culture while preserving the game’s tradition.
Georgia head coach Kirby Smart, whose mother hails from Plant City, has spoken of personal connections to the region, adding a layer of emotional resonance to the matchup. His wife, Sharon Smart, and other family members have long followed the Bulldogs, and the coach’s presence is expected to draw additional attention from the state’s football community.
Financial details remain a point of interest, with Georgia and Florida each slated to receive $7.5 million for the Atlanta edition of the game, while Tampa’s payout is still being negotiated. Raymond James Stadium, which can accommodate up to 70,000 fans, will serve as the venue, a capacity that aligns with the event’s growing stature.
Beyond football, Tampa’s calendar will be bolstered by the SEC gymnastics championships in 2027 and 2028, as well as the American Conference basketball tournaments, underscoring the city’s expanding role in collegiate sports. The recent NHL Stadium Series and a pre‑World Cup match have already demonstrated the region’s ability to host world‑class events.