Full Breakdown
49ers Weigh Relocating Practice Facility as Part of Injury-Prevention Strategy
6/25/2026, 3:10:43 PM
Facility Relocation Considerations
The San Francisco 49ers are assessing a move of their practice complex at the SAP Performance Facility next to Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara. Team officials say limited space, not the nearby electrical substation, drives the study.
Background and Context
The franchise has trained at the same site since 1988, moving its headquarters from San Francisco to Santa Clara after the 2013 season. In January 2025 a social-media claim linked the adjacent substation’s low-frequency fields to player injuries. An independent scientist later labeled the theory a “big nothing burger.” The rumor persisted through a 12-5 season in which star defenders Fred Warner and Nick Bosa missed time.
Key Figures
CEO Al Guido (promoted from president in February) leads the relocation review. General manager John Lynch manages the $9 million upgrade budget and three new physical-therapy hires. Owner Jed York and head coach Kyle Shanahan also participate in facility planning.
Investment and Staffing (Data & Statistics)
The organization has earmarked $9 million to enlarge the weight room, hydrotherapy pool, and rehab zones. Three additional physical-therapy specialists have joined the training staff. Recent upgrades to Levi’s Stadium—new video boards, lighting, and club spaces—support the franchise’s “golden standard” as a five-time Super Bowl champion.
Official Statements and Responses
Al Guido told The Athletic the relocation study focuses on space constraints around Levi’s Stadium and on giving players “the best hand.” He reiterated that the organization’s upgrades are intended to help the team capture a Super Bowl. Lynch confirmed the $9 million spend and three new staff members, emphasizing that the substation poses no health risk. The independent scientist’s report was cited as definitive proof that electromagnetic exposure does not affect injuries.
Criticism and Opposition
Despite scientific dismissal, the substation theory continued to shape public perception. Rival tight end Trey McBride warned the rumor could deter free agents. Social-media users amplified the claim, linking the team’s injury history to the power infrastructure.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We have been to three in the last 30 years and not won any. That's the appetite with everyone here, and this is the right time to do it. In talking to our fans, I think they feel that, too.” — Al Guido, CEO
- “We can spend as much money as we want on coaches and on support staff for our players,” — Al Guido, CEO
- “I can’t believe the building’s 12 years old; that’s kind of nutty to think about,” — Al Guido, CEO
- “big nothing burger.” — John Lynch, General Manager
What’s Next
The team has not yet identified a new site, and the relocation study remains ongoing while the organization proceeds with its $9 million upgrade plan and its stated aim of winning a Super Bowl.
