Now that New Orleans is back in the running to host the 2031 Super Bowl, what are the city’s chances of landing the big game for that year? NOLA.com columnist Jeff Duncan says like all other candidates, the city will have to make a strong pitch to the NFL – and he says the NFL is seeking high-end hospitality.
“They’re looking for deluxe accommodations for these VIP sponsors, and also event space, because it’s really become a meeting area. There’s product parties, there’s conventions and other events like that,” Duncan explained.
And then, of course, there’s the fact that by the time the 2031 Super Bowl comes around, the Superdome could potentially be the second oldest stadium in the NFL. Duncan says that won’t be a factor – for now.
“I certainly don’t think it will be any problem for 2031 as a target date. But once you get beyond that, at some point, the life expectancy of that stadium is going to expire, and they’re going to have to think about building a new stadium,” Duncan said.
Duncan says with many of the new stadiums being indoor stadiums, they could present significant roadblocks in New Orleans’ quest to host future Super Bowls if the city does not have a plan to eventually replace the Superdome.
“New stadiums are going to be built in Cleveland, Washington, D.C., Jacksonville, that adds to the competition that New Orleans is trying to fight,” Duncan noted.
If New Orleans fails to land the 2031 Super Bowl, the city’s next opportunity will not come until 2038, given scheduling conflicts due to conventions and Mardi Gras.