The Super Bowl is the biggest sporting event in the United States, attracting millions of viewers and generating billions in revenue. Each year, the NFL carefully selects a city to host the game, ensuring the event runs smoothly and maximizes fan engagement. But how exactly does the league decide which city gets to host? The process has changed over the years, shifting from an open bidding competition to a more controlled selection by the NFL. Factors such as weather, stadium quality, and infrastructure all play their part in the decision-making process.
Here’s everything you need to know about how the NFL chooses its Super Bowl host cities.
How The NFL Picks Super Bowl Host Cities?
The process of selecting a Super Bowl host city has changed significantly over the years. Previously, cities engaged in intense bidding wars, submitting extensive proposals, sometimes over 600 pages long, detailing their stadium facilities, infrastructure, and ability to accommodate fans. These bids were then reviewed by the 32 NFL team owners, who voted to determine the winning city. It was a long and expensive process, but it gave multiple cities a chance to compete.
That all changed in 2018. Now, the NFL does things differently. Instead of an open bidding war, the league reaches out directly to a city and asks if they want to host. If the city is interested, they negotiate terms with the NFL, and then the owners vote to finalize the decision. According to Michael Zimmer, President of the Miami Super Bowl Host Committee, this new system gives the league more control and ensures that only well-prepared cities get picked. It also makes the selection process smoother and more predictable.
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What Makes A City A Good Fit?
Weather is a huge factor. Since the Super Bowl happens in February, the NFL prefers warm-weather cities like Miami, Los Angeles, and New Orleans. These places have hosted the game the most because they don’t have to worry about snow or freezing temperatures. Cold-weather cities can still host, but only if they have a dome or get special approval from the league.
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The stadium itself also needs to meet strict requirements. It must hold at least 70,000 fans, though temporary seating can be added if needed. The venue also needs top-notch media and broadcasting facilities and at least 35,000 parking spaces nearby. But it’s not just about the stadium—the city has to handle thousands of visitors. The NFL requires enough hotel rooms to fit at least 35% of the stadium’s capacity within an hour’s drive. Some cities, like Jacksonville for Super Bowl XXXIX, even brought in cruise ships to provide extra lodging. The city also needs space for big events like the NFL Experience, concerts, and corporate gatherings.
Where The Super Bowl Is Headed Next
The NFL has already lined up its Super Bowl host cities for the next few years. The upcoming Super Bowl 59 will be in New Orleans at Caesars Superdome, a city that knows how to throw a party. In 2026, it moves to Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. Then, in 2027, SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, will host. Most recently, the NFL announced that Atlanta will get the 2028 Super Bowl, which will be the city’s fourth time hosting.
By focusing on stadium quality, weather, infrastructure, and fan experience, the NFL ensures that every Super Bowl is a great event. The switch to a direct-invitation system gives the league more control, ensuring that only the best cities are chosen. No matter where it’s held, the Super Bowl is always an unforgettable experience for players, fans, and sponsors.
Also Read: What Are The Locations And Dates For Future Super Bowl Games Through 2028?
