Credit: Associated PressDALLAS – Renovations to Cotton Bowl Stadium in Dallas, Texas, have been completed ahead of the upcoming matchup between the Oklahoma Sooners and Texas Longhorns.
Completed before the 2025 State Fair of Texas, which began on Sept. 26, the renovation brings about $140 million in upgrades to the 95-year-old stadium just in time for the Red River Rivalry on Oct. 11.
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What did the renovations include?
Fair Park, which comprises the stadium and surrounding fairgrounds, says the $140 million investment is the largest in its history, and the first project to come out of Proposition A, a funding mechanism using hotel occupancy taxes approved by Dallas voters in 2022.
Improvements made to the Cotton Bowl include upgrades to suites and press boxes, an updated facade, widened concourses, expanded concessions and restrooms as well as new escalators for improved circulation.
“These renovations will ensure that Cotton Bowl Stadium remains a premier destination for major events,” Fair Park said. “Preserving its historic significance while adapting it to modern standards.”
When is the Red River Rivalry?
The OU-Texas matchup will kick off at 2:30 p.m. on Oct. 11.
OU, set to face off against Kent State on Oct. 5, and Texas will play Florida the same day in its first conference matchup of the season.
With a win over Kent State, OU could enter the game undefeated. Texas, which came up short against Ohio State in Week 1, could have a chance to improve its seasonal resume with a win over the rival Sooners.
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