UCLA will play 2026 home games at Rose Bowl, potential move to SoFi Stadium delayed
CBS Sports
by
Robby Kalland
February 21, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
UCLA has decided to keep its football home games at the Rose Bowl through the 2026 season, delaying a potential move to SoFi Stadium. The university made this decision despite exploring options to play at the state-of-the-art venue in Inglewood, which is closer to campus and offers modern amenities. Vice Chancellor Mary Osako emphasized that staying at the Rose Bowl aligns with the priority of delivering a strong fan experience for Bruins students, alumni, and fans, while also maintaining momentum for the football program under new coach Bob Chesney.
The decision comes after a legal dispute between UCLA and the city of Pasadena over the lease agreement tied to the Rose Bowl. In October 2023, the Rose Bowl and Pasadena filed a lawsuit against UCLA, claiming that moving home games to SoFi Stadium would cause significant financial harm. The lawsuit alleged damages exceeding $1 billion, citing the economic impact on the local community. With the lease set to expire in 2044, UCLA’s plan to shift its football operations away from the iconic venue has been met with strong opposition.
UCLA’s decision to remain at the Rose Bowl for the upcoming season is seen as a strategic move to avoid further conflict while building momentum within the program. However, this does not resolve the ongoing dispute over their lease agreement. The university has yet to clarify its long-term plans, leaving speculation about whether they will eventually transition to SoFi Stadium. This decision also underscores the importance of maintaining strong community ties and avoiding disruptions during a critical period in college athletics.
The situation highlights the complex interplay between sports, economics, and community interests in college athletics. For fans of UCLA football, this means that the storied Rose Bowl will remain a central part of their gameday experience for at least the next few seasons. However, the broader implications of this decision—whether it affects Pasadena’s economy, UCLA’s future plans, or the trajectory of college football in Southern California—are likely to be hot topics in the coming years.
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/21/2026