The Sugar Bowl, featuring the College Football Playoff quarterfinal between Georgia and Notre Dame, has been postponed to Thursday following a tragic truck attack in New Orleans. Early Wednesday morning, a truck struck a New Year’s crowd, resulting in at least 10 fatalities.
Originally set for 7:45 p.m. Central at the 70,000-seat Superdome, the game will now occur on Thursday night, as confirmed by Sugar Bowl CEO Jeff Hundley.
“Public safety is paramount,” Hundley stated during a media briefing attended by federal, state, and local officials, including Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry and New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell. “All parties agree that postponing the game for 24 hours is in everyone’s best interest.”
U.S. Representative Troy Carter emphasized that the decision was made with careful consideration. “The focus was solely on public safety — ensuring that both citizens and visitors feel secure during this event and all future events in Louisiana,” he remarked. “We will utilize every available resource.”
Governor Landry addressed concerns from those questioning their attendance at the Sugar Bowl, reassuring them, “Your governor will be there. That’s proof that the facility and this city are safer today than yesterday.”
Hundley noted that efforts were underway to create a “safe, efficient, and enjoyable environment” for fans at the Superdome on Thursday night. He acknowledged the importance of public safety while maintaining the spirit of fun associated with the event.
On Wednesday morning, the Superdome underwent a security lockdown, prompting officials with the Sugar Bowl and Sun Belt Conference to stay away from the premises until further notice.
By Wednesday afternoon, some credentialed Superdome employees were allowed back into their offices.
The football teams from Georgia and Notre Dame arrived in New Orleans on Sunday, staying at hotels just a few blocks from the site of the incident.
Both universities confirmed that all team members and travel personnel were accounted for in the aftermath of the attack.
Rev. Robert A. Dowd, president of Notre Dame, expressed solidarity with those affected by the tragedy, stating, “To stand with those who suffer embodies the spirit of Notre Dame.”
Josh Brooks, athletic director at Georgia, shared prayers for everyone impacted by the horrific event, underscoring their commitment to support those affected.
University president Jere Morehead confirmed that a student was among those critically injured and that the institution is in touch with the family to provide assistance.
Earlier in the day, New Orleans City Council President Helena Moreno informed WDSU-TV that the security perimeter around the Superdome was being expanded.
The Superdome is also set to host the Super Bowl on February 9, adding to the urgency of ensuring safety measures are in place.
The first Super Bowl following the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks was held in New Orleans, featuring extensive security measures, including street closures and armed officers positioned on rooftops.
The NFL expressed its sadness regarding the incident, stating, “We are deeply saddened by the news of the devastating incident in New Orleans.” The league has been collaborating with local, state, and federal agencies to develop robust security plans for major events.
The NFL reassured fans that planning sessions will continue, aiming to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for attendees at the upcoming Super Bowl.
