Lawsuit Targets UCLA’s Plan to Move Games from Rose Bowl to SoFi Stadium
The Rose Bowl, a celebrated venue in American sports, could potentially lose UCLA’s football program as a tenant. The City of Pasadena, along with the Rose Bowl Operating Company, has initiated legal action against UCLA. Their goal is to inhibit the university’s plans to relocate its home games to SoFi Stadium.
Lawsuit Details
The lawsuit was filed on a Wednesday, targeting UCLA’s intentions despite the university’s lease at the Rose Bowl extending until 2044. Allegations state that UCLA has shown a definitive desire to abandon the historic stadium.
Context of the Lease
- Lease duration with UCLA: until 2044
- Distance from UCLA campus to Rose Bowl: 26 miles
In March 2025, an attorney representing UCLA informed Pasadena’s city attorney about discussions on a possible move. The university maintains that these talks do not breach the lease agreement. This assertion is under scrutiny, as the lawsuit appears to seek a declaratory judgment. Such a judgment would address any claims of a lease breach and possibly prevent UCLA from leaving the Rose Bowl.
Attendance Concerns
For the 2025 season, UCLA has faced challenges attracting fans, with average home game attendance hitting only 35,253. If this trend continues, the season could see record low attendance figures. The team’s performance has been poor, further impacting fan engagement.
Implications of the Lawsuit
The Rose Bowl Operating Company and the City of Pasadena’s legal actions are deemed essential. They aim to ensure that UCLA adheres to its long-term lease. Failure to uphold this contractual obligation could set a concerning precedent for sporting agreements.
In summary, the outcome of this lawsuit may determine the future of UCLA’s football games and the stability of the beloved Rose Bowl as a home venue.
