Why The Raiders Won't Play At Levi's Stadium
(KPIX 5) – If the Raiders are willing to share a stadium with the Chargers why not share with the 49ers in Santa Clara instead? It's been a question asked countless times since the news broke that Oakland was considering a joint venture with San Diego.
On the surface, it certainly seems logical. Levi's is a new stadium, it has room for a second home team locker room, it could be considered a neutral site since it's not in San Francisco, and the Raiders could profit from the sale of their own personal seat licenses.
The problem originates in the conceptual planning of Levi's Stadium. It is a building built for the 49ers. It is owned by the York family.
The York's control and receive all revenue associated with the venue, including Wrestlemania, the college bowl games, NHL hockey and soccer. In short, it is a cash cow and the York's milk it alone.
In contrast, MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey is home to both the New York Giants and New York Jets. The stadium was built by both teams, paid for by both teams who share a 50-50 stake in the venue.
MetLife Stadium uses sophisticated lighting that reflects which team is playing. If the Jets are in town, the building has a green tint throughout. If the Giants are playing, it's a sea of blue. There are louvers controlled by a hanging system that can literally turn a Jets stadium into a Giants stadium within hours. MetLife has four locker rooms, including one for the Jets, one for the Giants, and two for visiting teams.
Most importantly, the Jets and Giants own all the revenues from parking, suites, premium club seats, concerts, naming rights and sponsors. It is a true partnership with enough money to go around for everyone.
At Levi's Stadium, the Raiders would simply be a tenant, the way the Jets used to be at Giants Stadium. Got a problem with the leaky shower? Call the landlord. The Yorks would welcome the Raiders with open arms because it would be a revenue stream, a good business decision, more milk for the cow.
Insiders have speculated that the Raiders would be willing to play second-fiddle to the Chargers in a new stadium. That logic makes no sense. The Chargers need the Raiders to make this work. Oakland is not going to relocate to Carson without a revenue stream from a new venue, which is exactly why Davis wouldn't allow the Raiders to play at Levi's, unless it's a temporary deal while a new stadium is being built.
Follow the money. That's where you'll find the Raiders. And don't look for any silver and black banners at Levi's.
See you on TV.
