Kansas Jayhawks to Play 2024 Home Football Games in Kansas City

In an effort to accommodate stadium renovation construction at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium, the Kansas Jayhawks football team has announced that they will be playing their six home games for the 2024 season in Kansas City. The decision, revealed on Tuesday, will see the Jayhawks hosting their games at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium and Children's Mercy Park.

The Jayhawks' Big 12 conference home games against TCU, Houston, Iowa State, and Colorado will take place at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Additionally, their two nonconference home games against Lindenwood and UNLV will be hosted at Children's Mercy Park, the soccer stadium of Sporting Kansas City.

The move comes as construction is underway for the Gateway District, a $448 million project that aims to upgrade Memorial Stadium, along with the Jayhawks' football complex. Portions of the southwest, west, and north sides of the stadium will be completely rebuilt, posing challenges for hosting games with reduced capacity and potentially delaying construction progress. Consequently, the decision to play the 2024 home games in Kansas City was made to ensure the project remains on schedule.

Kansas athletic director Travis Goff expressed disappointment about not being able to play in Lawrence, but emphasized the benefits of the decision for all parties involved. Goff mentioned that playing at two different venues allows for an enhanced experience for the student-athletes, fans, and campus partners. Additionally, it helps with the budget of the construction project and contributes to the overall fan experience for the 2024 season.

It is worth noting that the Jayhawks last played at Arrowhead Stadium, home of the Kansas City Chiefs, in 2011 during their rival Border War game against Missouri before the Tigers moved to the SEC. The upcoming season gives the Jayhawks an opportunity to return to the iconic stadium.

The Kansas football team is entering the 2024 season with high expectations, following a successful campaign in 2023. With key players like quarterback Jalon Daniels, running back Devin Neal, cornerback Cobee Bryant, and a talented group of starters returning, the Jayhawks are poised to contend for the Big 12 title.

While the decision to play home games in Kansas City may be a temporary change, it provides an exciting opportunity for both the team and fans to experience games in renowned venues and continue to support the Jayhawks during the ongoing stadium renovations.

Altogether, the relocation of the home games for the 2024 season demonstrates the Jayhawks' commitment to providing the best possible experience for everyone involved, while ensuring the progress of the Gateway District construction remains on track.