In the COVID-19 pandemic era, it’s always good to have a backup plan. It’s a strategy facilities officials have learned all too well the last two years.
The NFL is pursuing a backup plan for its annual extravaganza, as word came out that the league is considering alternatives to hosting the Super Bowl in Los Angeles as the Omicron variant of COVID-19 ravages across the country.
The Super Bowl is scheduled for February 13 at SoFi Stadium, the home of the Rams and Chargers. But COVID precautions in the state and the rising number of infections could give the league reasons to move the Super Bowl.
A radio station in Arlington, Texas, reported that the NFL reached out to AT&T Stadium officials about the venue’s availability to host the game. The stadium is home to the Dallas Cowboys.
The escalating positive tests across the country have already wreaked havoc with many sporting events across the country. A number of college bowl games were canceled or new opponents were found for games after teams were unable to field teams because of positive cases. Locally in Los Angeles, USC and UCLA are among the college basketball teams that have seen games canceled. Both schools have also announced restricted attendance at indoor sporting events.
In addition to sports, the Grammy Awards postponed its January 31 ceremony in Los Angeles, as did the Critics Choice Awards.
Dave Lubach is managing editor, Facility Market.
