Tampa Bay Rays Assert $1.3 Billion Stadium Deal Remains Active

The team pushes back against Pinellas County's ultimatum, citing fulfilled obligations and awaiting further action on bond approvals.

Overview

The Tampa Bay Rays have declared their $1.3 billion stadium agreement with Pinellas County and St. Petersburg still valid, despite delays in bond approvals by local officials.
The team has spent over $50 million on the project but criticized the county for suspending work, which they claim jeopardizes the original 2028 opening timeline.
Pinellas County Commission gave the Rays a December 1 deadline to confirm their commitment, to which the team responded that the deal remains in effect unless terminated by either party or deadlines are missed.
The Rays will not play their 2025 home games at Tropicana Field due to severe damage caused by Hurricane Milton, instead relocating to George M. Steinbrenner Field in Tampa.
Final decisions on bond approvals for the stadium are scheduled for December 17 by the Pinellas County Commission and January 9 by the St. Petersburg City Council.