Sugar Bowl in New Orleans postponed until Thursday after Bourbon Street attack
NEW ORLEANS, La. - The Sugar Bowl, originally scheduled to take place Wednesday night at New Orleans’ Superdome, has been postponed to Thursday following a deadly attack on Bourbon Street early Wednesday morning. The decision was confirmed by the Sugar Bowl committee during a press conference, after initial plans to proceed with the game were reconsidered. FOX 5 Sports has learned from sources about the kickoff time.
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The delay comes in the wake of a devastating incident that left 15 people dead and more than 30 others injured. The attack occurred when a driver, identified as 42-year-old Shamsud Din Jabbar from Texas, plowed a vehicle into a crowd before engaging police in a gunfight. Two officers were injured in the exchange, and the suspect was killed. The FBI is investigating the incident as a potential act of terrorism.
UGA and Notre Dame Community Impacted
Tens of thousands of fans, along with players and staff from the University of Georgia and Notre Dame, are in New Orleans for the game. A UGA student was critically injured in the attack and is receiving medical care. UGA President Jere W. Morehead has expressed his condolences and support to the student’s family, while the university works to support its community in the aftermath of the tragedy.
RELATED: UGA student critically injured during attack on Bourbon Street in New Orleans
"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their families as we work through this," said Jeff Hundley, the chief executive officer of the Allstate Sugar Bowl. "We have full faith and confidence in the governor and the mayor and all the federal, state, and local first-responders that they’ve applied to this horrific event. Any time we have an event like the Sugar Bowl, public safety is paramount, and all parties involved agree that could only be achieved with a postponement. Now we will move ahead to take care of the details to make the Sugar Bowl the first-class, fun, and safe event that it has been for over 90 years."
Notre Dame released a statement expressing sympathy and confirming that none of their students or staff have been reported injured. Both schools are in close communication with local authorities as the investigation and recovery efforts continue.
"On behalf of the College Football Playoff, we are devastated by this morning’s attack, and our hearts go out to the families and loved ones of those affected by this tragedy," said Rich Clark, the executive director of the College Football Playoff. "We are grateful to the leadership of the Sugar Bowl, New Orleans, the State of Louisiana and federal authorities as we work together to ensure we can provide a safe environment for everyone. We are also appreciative of ESPN’s flexibility in moving the game to tomorrow afternoon."
Coach Kirby Smart posts heartfelt message
Georgia Bulldogs head coach Kirby Smart posted to Facebook after the decision was made to move the bowl game to Thursday:
"Some things are bigger than football.
"Today, we pause – not for rivalry or competition – but for reflection.
"The tragedy in New Orleans reminds us that life is fragile, and moments like these call for unity and respect.
"Out of honor for those we lost and to ensure the safety of all, today's game will be postponed.
"Our hearts are with the families, the friends, and the entire New Orleans community.
"Football will return... but for now, we stand together in grief and remembrance."
Coach Smart signed it with heart and the hashtag: Pray for New Orleans.
Enhanced Security and Investigation Ongoing
New Orleans officials have urged residents and visitors to avoid the affected areas while the investigation is underway. Security has been increased throughout the city, particularly around major events like the Sugar Bowl. Despite the heightened caution, city officials have encouraged visitors to continue enjoying New Orleans’ offerings in areas unaffected by the attack.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp and other leaders have extended their condolences to the victims and their families, while thanking first responders and medical personnel for their swift actions.
The Sugar Bowl’s rescheduling to Thursday provides additional time for the city to address security concerns and support those impacted by this senseless act of violence.
Sources tell FOX 5 Sports that the kickoff is 4 p.m. Eastern. It will be televised on ESPN.