Who Plays at Camping World Stadium? Nestled in the heart of Orlando, Florida, Camping World Stadium is a historic venue that’s been a cornerstone of sports and entertainment since its opening in 1936. Originally known as Orlando Stadium, and later the Citrus Bowl, this iconic arena has hosted a diverse array of teams, events, and performances over its nearly nine-decade history. From college football bowl games to professional soccer matches, NFL Pro Bowls, and massive concerts, Camping World Stadium is a multi-purpose hub that draws crowds from across the globe. In this blog post, we’ll dive into who plays at Camping World Stadium, exploring its rich legacy of sports teams, events, and the occasional blockbuster concert that keeps this venue buzzing.
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A Legacy of College Football
Camping World Stadium is perhaps best known for its deep ties to college football. The venue has been the home of the Citrus Bowl (now the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl) since the 1940s, making it one of the longest-running bowl games in the NCAA. This annual postseason game typically features top teams from the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and Big Ten Conference. For example, the 2024 Citrus Bowl saw South Carolina face off against Illinois on December 31. The Pop-Tarts Bowl, another prominent college football game, also calls Camping World Stadium home, with the 2024 matchup pitting Miami against Iowa State on December 28. These games attract tens of thousands of fans, filling the stadium’s 60,219 seats (expandable to 65,000) with vibrant energy.
Beyond bowl games, the Florida Classic, an annual rivalry game between Florida A&M University and Bethune-Cookman University, is a cultural cornerstone at Camping World Stadium. This historically Black college football matchup draws massive crowds and is a celebration of tradition, community, and competition. The stadium also hosts the StaffDNA Cure Bowl, which in 2024 featured Jax State versus Ohio, showcasing mid-major programs while supporting a charitable cause.
Historically, Rollins College used the stadium as its home field before and after World War II, and Jones High School, a local powerhouse, played its home games here for decades until 2012. These ties to local and regional football programs highlight the stadium’s role as a community anchor.
Professional Sports and Soccer’s Rise
While college football is a mainstay, Camping World Stadium has also been a temporary home for various professional sports teams. In the past, it hosted short-lived football franchises like the Orlando Panthers (Continental Football League, 1966–1970), Florida Blazers (World Football League, 1974), Orlando Renegades (USFL, 1985), Orlando Thunder (WLAF, early 1990s), Orlando Rage (XFL, 2001), and Florida Tuskers (UFL, 2009–2010). More recently, the Orlando Guardians played at the stadium during the 2023 XFL season before folding after the league’s merger with the USFL. There’s also buzz about the Jacksonville Jaguars potentially using Camping World Stadium as a temporary home in 2027 while their own stadium undergoes renovations.
Soccer has found a significant home at Camping World Stadium, too. The venue hosted matches during the 1994 FIFA World Cup, with an average attendance of over 60,000 per game, and was a key site for the 1996 Olympic soccer tournaments for both men’s and women’s competitions. The Orlando City SC, a Major League Soccer (MLS) team, called the stadium home during its early years and played its final USL Pro match there in 2013, winning the championship against the Charlotte Eagles before a crowd of 20,886. The stadium also hosted the MLS All-Star Game in 1998 and international friendlies, such as a 2013 match between the United States and Brazil women’s teams. Looking ahead, Camping World Stadium is set to host matches for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, including games featuring Club Leon, CR Flamengo, Juventus FC, and Manchester City.
Concerts and Major Events
Camping World Stadium isn’t just for sports—it’s a premier destination for blockbuster concerts and entertainment events. Over the years, it has welcomed music legends like The Rolling Stones, who performed there in 2024, drawing an estimated 42,000 fans. Other iconic acts include Metallica, Pink, and Bad Bunny, with upcoming 2025 performances by Post Malone with Jelly Roll, Shakira, Stray Kids, and The Weeknd with Playboi Carti and Mike Dean. The stadium’s ability to host massive crowds—up to 75,000 for events like WrestleMania 33—makes it a go-to venue for major tours.
The stadium also hosts unique events like Monster Jam, a fan-favorite motorsport spectacle, and the Electric Daisy Carnival, a massive electronic music festival. These events showcase the venue’s versatility, transforming it from a football field to a concert stage or a dirt-packed arena for monster trucks.
A Venue Evolving with Time
Camping World Stadium has undergone significant renovations to stay modern and fan-friendly. A $200 million overhaul in 2014 rebuilt the lower bowl, added club seating, and improved amenities like concourses and restrooms. A $400 million renovation, approved in 2024, will replace the upper deck, add a new suite tower, and construct a 100,000-square-foot multipurpose venue nearby, with completion targeted for the 2027 college football season. These upgrades ensure the stadium remains competitive for hosting high-profile events, including potential 2026 FIFA World Cup matches.
Why Camping World Stadium Matters
Camping World Stadium is more than just a venue—it’s a cultural and economic engine for Orlando. A study by Tourism Economics highlighted its role in generating jobs, income, and tax revenue through visitor spending and events. Whether it’s the roar of a college football crowd, the passion of soccer fans, or the energy of a sold-out concert, the stadium brings people together for unforgettable experiences.
FAQs
- What college football teams play at Camping World Stadium?
The stadium doesn’t have a permanent college football team but hosts annual bowl games like the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl (e.g., South Carolina vs. Illinois in 2024) and the Pop-Tarts Bowl (e.g., Miami vs. Iowa State in 2024). The Florida Classic between Florida A&M and Bethune-Cookman is also a regular event. - Does Camping World Stadium host professional sports teams?
Currently, no professional teams are permanent tenants, but the stadium has hosted teams like the Orlando Guardians (XFL, 2023) and Orlando City SC (MLS, early years). It may host the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2027. - What kind of concerts happen at Camping World Stadium?
The stadium hosts major artists like The Rolling Stones, Post Malone, Shakira, and Stray Kids. It’s also home to festivals like the Electric Daisy Carnival. - Is Camping World Stadium used for events other than sports and concerts?
Yes, it hosts events like Monster Jam and has served as a COVID-19 vaccination site and monoclonal antibody treatment clinic. - Will Camping World Stadium host international soccer events in the future?
Yes, it’s scheduled to host matches for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup and is a candidate for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Camping World Stadium’s rich history and diverse event lineup make it a vital part of Orlando’s identity. Whether you’re a sports fan, music lover, or just looking for a memorable experience, this venue has something for everyone.