WFAA News has confirmed that the NFL is considering Arlington’s AT&T Stadium as a backup venue for this year’s Super Bowl. Super Bowl LVI is currently scheduled for Sunday, February 13, at the new SoFi Stadium in California, just outside of Los Angeles.
According to NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy, it is not unusual for the NFL to consider backup venues. However, potential Californian COVID restrictions have some people concerned this year’s Super Bowl will actually be relocated.
“We plan on playing Super Bowl LVI as scheduled at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on Sunday, February 13,” McCarthy said. “As part of our standard contingency planning process that we conduct for all regular and postseason games, we have contacted several clubs to inquire about stadium availability in the event we cannot play the Super Bowl as scheduled due to weather-related issues or unforeseen circumstances. Our planning process for the Super Bowl in Los Angeles is ahead of schedule and we look forward to hosting the Super Bowl there to culminate another fantastic NFL season for our fans and clubs.”
Several other major sporting events have already been moved from California to North Texas due to COVID.
Arlington has already stated a willingness to host this year’s game as necessary. Furthermore, city officials have also stated that, while any last-minute venue changes will be difficult, it is completely feasible.