Lawsuit Claims UCLA Seeks to Relocate Rose Bowl Games to SoFi Stadium
The City of Pasadena, alongside the Rose Bowl Operating Company, has initiated a lawsuit aimed at preventing UCLA from relocating its football games from the historic Rose Bowl Stadium to SoFi Stadium in Inglewood. This legal action was filed on Wednesday night in Los Angeles County Superior Court.
Lawsuit Details Against UCLA
The suit targets both UCLA and the University of California Regents. The plaintiffs argue that UCLA has shown a clear intent to abandon the Rose Bowl, calling this potential move a severe breach of trust. Pasadena officials emphasize that taxpayers have invested over $150 million in renovations and have recently refinanced an additional $130 million in bonds for ongoing improvements to the stadium.
Key Allegations
- The lawsuit claims UCLA has disregarded prior assurances of remaining at the Rose Bowl through 2044.
- Pasadena officials assert that UCLA’s departure could cause damages exceeding $1 billion.
- The filing states the harm to the community cannot be adequately addressed through monetary compensation.
UCLA’s Response
UCLA has not yet filed a formal response to the lawsuit. However, the university disputes the allegations in a statement from David L. Schrader, an attorney representing UCLA. He argues that preliminary discussions about relocation do not breach the existing contract.
Current Attendance Concerns
Attendance at the Rose Bowl has been declining. This season, UCLA has averaged only 35,253 fans per game. According to statistics, this trend could lead to the lowest attendance figures in the history of the stadium.
- The team’s five lowest attendance figures occurred during the past five seasons.
- The largest attendance recorded this year was 46,805 fans, ranking 16th in the Big Ten Conference.
- UCLA is under pressure to consider its strategic goals for sustaining attendance while remaining financially responsible.
The lawsuit seeks to compel UCLA to honor its lease through June 30, 2044, reinforcing the significance of tradition and community in sports. The outcome of this legal battle may prove vital for both Pasadena and the future of the iconic Rose Bowl Stadium.
