Full Breakdown
UCLA Football Returns to the Rose Bowl for Spring Game
3/24/2026, 2:10:24 PM
Key Details of the Spring Game
UCLA football will host its 2026 Spring Game at the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, California, on May 2, 2026, starting at noon PT. Admission is free for fans who request tickets, which can be obtained through the university's athletics website. The stadium gates will open at 10 a.m., with parking lots H, K, and I opening at 9 a.m., also free of charge. The specific format of the spring game will be determined closer to the event date.
Background on UCLA's Stadium Situation
The return to the Rose Bowl comes after UCLA considered moving to SoFi Stadium for the 2026 season. However, the university is currently facing a lawsuit from the Rose Bowl and the City of Pasadena for an anticipatory breach of contract, leaving its long-term future at the stadium uncertain. The Rose Bowl has been the Bruins' home for decades, and this spring game marks an important moment for fans to reconnect with the venue.
New Leadership Under Bob Chesney
Bob Chesney, the new head coach for UCLA, will lead the Bruins during this spring event. He previously coached at James Madison University, where he achieved a 21-6 record over two seasons, including a perfect 8-0 conference record and a College Football Playoff berth in 2025. His successful tenure earned him accolades such as the Sun Belt Conference Coach of the Year and nominations for prestigious coaching awards. The spring game will serve as a showcase for Chesney's rebuilding efforts following a challenging period for the Bruins, who finished with a 5-10 record in the previous two seasons under former coach DeShaun Foster.
Community Engagement and Events
The spring game coincides with a Cinco de Mayo celebration, which will feature a marketplace with local crafts, food, and live music, alongside a boxing tournament. This event aims to honor the traditions and heritage of the local community while providing an engaging atmosphere for families attending the game.
Official Statements & Responses
UCLA Athletics emphasized the significance of the spring game as a chance for fans to experience the new direction of the football program under Coach Chesney. The university has encouraged fans to participate in the festivities surrounding the game, highlighting the community aspect of the event.
Criticism & Opposition
The ongoing lawsuit regarding UCLA's stadium situation has drawn criticism from local stakeholders who argue that the university's potential move to SoFi Stadium could undermine the historical significance of the Rose Bowl and its role in the community.
What's Next
Following the spring game, UCLA is set to open its home schedule on September 12 against San Diego State, a week after facing California in their season opener. The Bruins' performance in the upcoming season will be closely monitored as they embark on this new chapter under Coach Chesney.
