BREAKING NEWS: A judge has just denied a critical request from the city of Pasadena and the Rose Bowl Operating Company to block UCLA’s football team from potentially relocating its home games. The decision, delivered on Wednesday morning, highlights the ongoing legal battle over a lease agreement that allegedly binds UCLA to the Rose Bowl until 2044.
During a hearing at the Los Angeles courthouse, Judge ruled that there was no immediate emergency justifying a temporary restraining order against UCLA. The plaintiffs had argued that such an order was necessary to prevent UCLA from playing at any venue outside the Rose Bowl while their lawsuit is pending. However, the court found no indication that UCLA plans to leave the Rose Bowl imminently.
In a statement following the ruling, the city expressed disappointment but remained optimistic. “While the Court held that no emergency existed which demanded temporary relief, it did invite the City of Pasadena and the Rose Bowl Operating Company to pursue further legal action,” officials said. They plan to file a motion for a preliminary injunction, citing potential irreparable harm to the city and the regional economy should UCLA breach its lease.
UCLA has been playing at the Rose Bowl Stadium since 1982 and is currently considering alternatives, including SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, as a possible new home for its football games. UCLA only has one more home game scheduled for the 2025 season, raising questions about its future at the historic venue.
Mary Osako, UCLA’s Vice Chancellor for Strategic Communications, commented on the ruling, stating, “As we have said, while we continue to evaluate the long-term arrangement for UCLA football home games, no decision has been made.” The university’s ongoing exploration of a new venue adds urgency to the situation, emphasizing the stakes for both the school and the city.
With the potential for significant changes ahead, all eyes will be on the upcoming motions and the further legal proceedings that could reshape UCLA football for years to come. The city of Pasadena remains confident that the court will recognize the serious implications of UCLA’s lease obligations and the potential damage to the Rose Bowl and the local economy.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as Pasadena prepares to take its next legal steps and UCLA continues to evaluate its options for the future of its football program.
