UCLA to play 2026 football season at Rose Bowl as lawsuit continues - Los Angeles Times
Los Angeles Times
by Los Angeles Times StaffFebruary 21, 2026
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UCLA has decided to keep its 2026 football season at the Rose Bowl despite ongoing legal disputes over plans to move home games to SoFi Stadium. The university’s announcement came after a judge denied its request to settle the matter through arbitration, leaving the team with no choice but to play at the historic venue in Pasadena for now. UCLA Vice Chancellor Mary Osako emphasized the importance of delivering a strong season experience for both student-athletes and fans, while the legal battle over the lease continues.
The lawsuit between UCLA and the Rose Bowl Operating Company, along with the city of Pasadena, centers on whether UCLA can break its contract to play at the Rose Bowl through 2044. The complaint alleges that UCLA has been working behind the scenes to move its home games to SoFi Stadium, calling it a betrayal of trust. This legal battle is significant because it involves millions of taxpayer dollars invested in stadium renovations and capital improvements, with Pasadena arguing that the lease must be honored.
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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/21/2026