ATLANTA, GA – College football fans rejoice! The Southeastern Conference (SEC) Football Championship Game will remain in its established home at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium for years to come. An extension agreement announced on Thursday secures Atlanta’s position as the host city through at least 2031, with the potential for an even longer stay.
This agreement, involving the SEC, AMB Sports and Entertainment (AMBSE), and the Georgia World Congress Center Authority (GWCCA), extends the existing contract, which was originally set to expire in 2026. Adding to the good news for Atlanta and SEC fans, the agreement includes an option for the SEC to exercise a further five-year extension, potentially keeping the championship game in the state-of-the-art Mercedes-Benz Stadium all the way through 2036.
Atlanta’s long-standing relationship with the SEC Championship is undeniable. The city has hosted the prestigious game every year since 1994. From 1994 through 2016, the Georgia Dome was the iconic venue, and since 2017, the mantle has been passed to the technologically advanced Mercedes-Benz Stadium. This Saturday’s matchup between Alabama and Georgia will mark a significant milestone: the 30th time Atlanta has hosted the SEC title game, solidifying its place as the championship’s consistent home.
SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey emphasized the strong partnership, stating, “The SEC Football Championship Game is a highlight in college sports, and Mercedes-Benz Stadium is a world-class facility. Atlanta provides the perfect stage for our annual championship game. We value our continued positive relationship with Mercedes-Benz Stadium and the Georgia World Congress Center.”
Mercedes-Benz Stadium is not just a venue for the SEC Championship; it’s a hub for premier sporting events. It annually hosts the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl and the Celebration Bowl, the championship game for Historically Black Colleges and Universities conferences. Furthermore, it is the proud home of the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons and Major League Soccer’s Atlanta United, making it a central figure in Atlanta’s sports landscape.
Rich McKay, CEO of AMB Sports and Entertainment, echoed the enthusiasm: “Commissioner Sankey and the SEC are valued partners. We are thrilled to ensure the championship game remains in Atlanta and at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, its rightful home.”
Tim Zulawski, president of AMB Sports and Entertainment, added, “Mercedes-Benz Stadium is excited to continue hosting the SEC Football Championship. This game is a marquee event in college football each season, and we are proud to collaborate with the SEC to keep this tradition in Atlanta for many years to come.”
Mercedes-Benz Stadium’s capabilities extend beyond college football. The stadium has hosted the 2018 College Football Playoff Championship Game, the 2018 MLS Cup, the MLS All-Star Game, and Super Bowl LIII in 2019. While the 2020 NCAA Men’s Final Four scheduled for the stadium was unfortunately cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Mercedes-Benz Stadium is set to host the 2025 CFP title game and eagerly anticipates hosting games for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Frank Poe, Executive Director of GWCCA, highlighted the broader impact: “The Georgia World Congress Center Authority’s championship campus is a leading destination for live events, including the nation’s top collegiate football championship. This contract extension with the Southeastern Conference signifies more than just a continued partnership and a prestigious sporting event. It underscores our dedication to providing exceptional experiences for football fans throughout the Southeast and driving economic growth for both Atlanta and Georgia.”
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens proudly remarked, “For three decades, Atlanta has been the home of the SEC Championship. Now, we are honored to extend our hosting duties through at least 2031. This reflects our city’s ability to host major events and the dedication of our businesses, restaurants, and hospitality workers who make Atlanta a world-class destination. We thank everyone in Atlanta who contributes to making our city the new sports capital of the nation.”
