Home / Sports / Atlanta Hosts Historic Florida-Georgia Rivalry in 2026
Atlanta Hosts Historic Florida-Georgia Rivalry in 2026
31 Oct
Summary
- The historic Florida-Georgia game moves to Atlanta in 2026.
- Jacksonville stadium renovations necessitate the temporary move.
- Both schools receive $7.5 million each to play in Atlanta.
For the first time in over 90 years, the storied Florida Gators and Georgia Bulldogs football rivalry will not be played in Jacksonville, Florida. In 2026, the annual SEC showdown, historically hosted in Jacksonville, will take place at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. This relocation is necessitated by significant renovations underway at Everbank Stadium in Jacksonville, which are scheduled for completion in August 2028.
The decision to move the game to Atlanta was announced in 2024, alongside the confirmation of Tampa, Florida, as the host city for the 2027 game. While playing on home campuses was considered, neutral sites offer greater financial benefits. For the 2026 game in Atlanta, both the Florida and Georgia schools are each receiving $7.5 million from Arthur M. Blank Sports and Entertainment. The rivalry is slated to return to its traditional home in Jacksonville starting in 2028, with an agreement in place through 2031.
