Doak Campbell Hosts PBR Event, Expands into New Business Ventures
Doak Campbell Stadium is set to host a major Professional Bull Riders (PBR) event on March 13-14, 2026. This addition marks a significant expansion into non-football events for Florida State University (FSU) as part of its ongoing renovations.
Renovation and Event Details
The stadium recently underwent a $265 million renovation. FSU aims to attract a variety of events to the venue, transforming it into a year-round entertainment hub. The PBR event is a key part of this strategy.
What to Expect at the PBR Event
The PBR, recognized as the largest professional bull riding organization globally, will bring a unique experience to the stadium. Here are some key features of the event:
- Duration: March 13-14, 2026
- Post-event concerts featuring major music acts
- Utilization of 5.5 million pounds of dirt to create the bull riding arena
- Covers 30,000 square feet of Bobby Bowden Field
Each night of bull riding will conclude with a concert, enhancing the entertainment experience for attendees.
Strategic Plans for Doak Campbell Stadium
Michael Alford, FSU’s Vice President and Athletics Director, has emphasized the importance of this initiative. He stated that transforming Doak Campbell into an entertainment arena is crucial for generating consistent revenue.
Future Plans and Community Engagement
Alford revealed that FSU is in “deep negotiations” to add three to four events each year at the stadium. The objective is to maximize community engagement and attract visitors during the offseason.
Event Significance
The PBR event serves as the 13th of 18 on the 2026 premier individual tour regular season. It plays a vital role in the qualification process for the PBR World Finals in Fort Worth, Texas. Participants will be challenged to ride bucking bulls for eight seconds, bringing excitement and competition to the renovated stadium.
As FSU continues to innovate and expand its offerings, the PBR event is a milestone in its effort to enrich the local community and enhance the university’s standing as an entertainment destination.
