Popular college football bowl game canceled after nearly 30 years

The Detroit Lions and Ford Field announced that they will not host a bowl game in 2026, marking the end of the GameAbove Sports Bowl. This decision comes as the current naming rights partnership concludes, prompting a shift in focus toward investing in sports at various levels and other entertainment events. Ford Field has hosted the bowl game since 2002, following its relocation from the Pontiac Silverdome, with the event undergoing several name changes over the years. The final GameAbove Sports Bowl saw the Northwestern Wildcats defeat the Central Michigan Chippewas 34-7. This cancellation adds to a growing list of discontinued bowl games, including the LA Bowl and the Bahamas Bowl. The bowl had been instrumental in promoting Detroit and supporting local community and youth football programs.