Tampa Secures 2029 College Football Playoff Championship Game

Tampa will host the College Football Playoff (CFP) national championship game on January 22, 2029, marking the city’s second time as the venue for this prestigious event. The announcement was made by the CFP on Wednesday, confirming that the championship will take place at Raymond James Stadium. This stadium previously hosted the title game in January 2017, where Clemson triumphed over Alabama with a score of 35-31.

The selection of Tampa as a host city emphasizes its reputation for successfully accommodating major sporting events. Alongside Tampa, other cities such as Atlanta, New Orleans, and Miami Gardens are also set to host the CFP championship game twice, with Atlanta hosting in 2018 and 2025, New Orleans in 2020 and 2028, and Miami Gardens in 2021 and 2026.

CFP executive director Rich Clark expressed enthusiasm about bringing the championship back to Tampa Bay. He stated, “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.” Clark also highlighted the intent to collaborate with the Tampa Bay Sports Commission and local leaders to ensure an unforgettable national championship experience.

Raymond James Stadium, home to the NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the annual Reliaquest Bowl, will serve as the backdrop for this significant event. The stadium is well-regarded for its modern facilities and capacity to host large crowds, making it a fitting choice for the championship.

The history of the CFP national title game began in 2015 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, following the 2014 season. Since then, several cities have hosted the event, including Glendale, Arizona (2016), Santa Clara, California (2019), Indianapolis (2022), Inglewood, California (2023), and Houston (2024). Looking ahead, Las Vegas is set to host the championship game in 2027.

As anticipation builds for the 2029 national championship game, Tampa Bay is poised to showcase its capabilities as a premier destination for college football fans across the nation. With vibrant local support and a commitment to excellence, the city aims to deliver an unforgettable experience for all attendees.