Overview
- ACC athletic directors reviewed the relocation idea over the summer and declined to back it, keeping the 2025 game in San Diego on Jan. 2.
- Sports San Diego considered an estimated $5–6 million incentive as it faces revenue shortfalls, including COVID-era losses and the lack of a title sponsor.
- CEO Mark Neville visited Saudi Arabia in June to discuss staging the matchup in Jeddah at King Abdullah Sports City before concluding the plan was unworkable.
- Critics cited human-rights concerns and practical hurdles such as long travel and a roughly 10-hour Pacific time difference that could depress participation and attendance.
- The bowl’s current ACC–Pac-12 tie-in runs through this season, and Saudi officials continue to pursue major American football events, including a future NFL game.