USF Unveils New Rendering For On-Campus Stadium
The University of South Florida (USF) is giving us a fresh look at its much-anticipated on-campus stadium! The updated renderings are a huge step forward in the $340-million project, which is now back on track after a change in its game plan last December.
USF parted ways with the Barton Malow-led design-build team, who couldn’t meet the original 2026 deadline. Barton Malow pointed to “significant global supply chain issues” as the culprit. But now, with a new team, the stadium is moving forward with a brand-new vision and plenty of momentum.
When USF’s on-campus stadium opens in 2027, the west side will be all about the students. This section will be reserved just for them, offering their own amenities and a one-of-a-kind game day experience. The newly released renderings show the student side decked out with its own entrance, restrooms, and concessions. More than 8,000 students will pack the stands, surrounded by the iconic “Bull U” logo.
“The passion of the student body is what makes college sports so special,” said Michael Kelly, Vice President for Athletics. “On the heels of record student demand for the upcoming game against Miami, we are thrilled to offer a glimpse of the future South Florida student experience on game day. Many of the amenities included on the west side of the stadium were based on student feedback, and we thank them for wanting to be a part of this exciting future we are creating together!”
Right next to the student section, the Herd of Thunder marching band will have its own section on the north side. With easy field access, they’ll be ready to take the spotlight for their pregame and halftime shows.
Over on the south side, home turf for the season ticket holders, fans will score shaded seats during those sunny day games, thanks to the press box tower.
The groundbreaking will take place on October 18. USF plans to release more renderings as the big day approaches. The stadium will be located on the east side of the Tampa campus, in the Sycamore Fields area, which is currently used for intramural sports. It’s right in the heart of the USF Athletics district, near the operations facility and the new Indoor Performance Facility.
USF’s Facebook post unveiling the new stadium renderings sparked a wave of excitement. One fan wrote, “I can’t wait to get back to campus and watch my BULLS!! I think this is going to be so good for the school and athletics in all!” Another added, “Love that the band has a dedicated spot.”
Amid all the hype, some couldn’t resist cracking jokes about Florida’s infamous heat. “Jesus give us some shade!!!! This is FLORIDA!” one person joked. Another chimed in, “In this sun and heat, lots of sun burn for sure.” Who knows, maybe they’ll consider throwing in some fans and misters.
Since 1998, the Bulls have called Raymond James Stadium home. This 65,000-seat venue also hosts the NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the ReliaQuest Bowl, the Gasparilla Bowl, and major concerts by superstars like Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, and The Rolling Stones. Not to mention, it’s hosted three NFL Super Bowls and even Wrestlemania! But soon, the Bulls will have a stadium of their own, right on campus.
