A new Superdome lease agreement has been signed between the Saints and the State of Louisiana. The 10-year extension keeps the Black and Gold in New Orleans through the 2035 season, and the Saints will have the option to renew every five years through 2055. Owner Gayle Benson says the deal is an example of the special partnership between the state and the NFL franchise.
“This agreement solidifies a better partnership for decades to come, and more. We do have much more work to do, and I give everyone here my full commitment that I will be there every step of the way,” Benson said.
The new lease agreement is the result of lengthy negotiations between the NFL franchise and the Saints. According to NOLA.com, the two sides had trouble agreeing on new details for other real estate properties, such as Benson Tower, which is owned by the Saints but leases office space to state agencies.
Changes have also been made on revenue percentages for food and beverage sales at games and gives Louisiana more favorable terms to market the Dome’s exclusive suites for marquee events.
The lease agreement also contains language that would deter a future owner from relocating the team. Governor Jeff Landry praises the deal.
“This Superdome and the Saints are not two different things. They are actually one. And it is in my opinion, that’s why the Saints can never leave the city of New Orleans,” Landry said.
Because the lease agreement negotiations took longer than expected, the Saints missed a key deadline in order to bid on hosting a Super Bowl in 2031. But Benson believes it’s not too late to get involved in the bidding.
“As I stand here today, our ability to secure another Super Bowl has been somewhat compressed, but I am not deterred,” Benson said.
If 2031 is not on the table for the Saints, the next available year for New Orleans to host the Super Bowl is 2038.
