It’s official: Tampa will host the 2029 College Football Playoff National Championship at Raymond James Stadium on Monday, January 22, 2029, becoming just the fourth city to host the title game for a second time.
The announcement came Wednesday morning during a joint press conference featuring Tampa Mayor Jane Castor, Hillsborough County Commissioner Ken Hagan, Tampa Bay Sports Commission Chair Ben Milsom, Tampa Sports Authority CEO Eric Hart, Visit Tampa Bay CEO Santiago Corrada, Tampa Bay Buccaneers COO Brian Ford, Hall of Famer Derrick Brooks and USF Athletics CEO Rob Higgins.
SIGN UP FOR TBBW’S FREE NEWSLETTER
Rich Clark, executive director of the College Football Playoff, said Tampa’s proven ability to deliver world-class events made it the clear choice for 2029. “The city has established itself as an exceptional host for world-class sporting events, and its vibrant downtown, beautiful waterfront and proven commitment to excellence make it an ideal setting for college football’s greatest night,” he said.
Game on, Tampa
The 2029 championship replaces Dallas as host after Arlington withdrew its bid due to convention center renovations and funding changes. Raymond James Stadium last hosted the title game in January 2017, when Clemson defeated Alabama before a sellout crowd of 74,512.
That 2017 event generated $273.6 million in total economic impact, including $120 million in direct spending, according to Visit Tampa Bay. The return of the championship is expected to deliver similar — or greater — gains, driven by Tampa’s expanded hotel capacity, enhanced infrastructure and national reputation for hospitality.
READ: From Bolita to Billups: Tampa’s long history with La Cosa Nostra
Since 2015, the College Football Playoff has rotated among major cities including Atlanta, New Orleans, South Florida and Las Vegas, with Tampa once again joining that elite lineup.
Local leaders react
“We are extremely excited to bring this marquee event to Raymond James Stadium,” said Eric Hart, president and CEO of the Tampa Sports Authority. “Tampa Bay being selected again to host this prestigious event is another example of the reputation of our venue and community.”
Ben Milsom, board chair of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, called the 2029 game “a moment for our community to shine.” “It reflects what makes Tampa Bay special: teamwork, hospitality and a shared commitment to excellence,” he said.
READ: Bojangles returns to Tampa Bay Nov. 4 with new restaurant
Rob Higgins, CEO of USF Athletics and former executive director of the Sports Commission, said the event’s return is a testament to “Team Tampa Bay’s” collaborative spirit. “The social and economic impact of this event is phenomenal, and guests who haven’t been here since 2017 are going to be shocked by how our area has totally transformed since we last hosted.”
Why it matters
- Economic impact: The 2017 CFP weekend brought an estimated $273.6 million to the region.
- Community visibility: Tampa will again be showcased on a global broadcast stage.
- Momentum: The announcement reaffirms the city’s standing as a premier destination for high-profile sporting events.
By the numbers
- Venue: Raymond James Stadium
- Event: 2029 College Football Playoff National Championship
- Date: Monday, January 22, 2029
- Last hosted: January 2017
- Attendance (2017): 74,512
- Economic impact (2017): $273.6 million
