New Orleans could soon become a hub for international soccer and rugby matches, as Louisiana considers adding these events to the list of those that can receive state funding support. Senate Bill 404, introduced by Sen. Patrick Connick, R-Marrero, would allow the international and national governing bodies of soccer and rugby to qualify for state incentives if their teams compete in Louisiana.
The bill was inspired by NOLA Gold, a professional rugby team based in Metairie. If passed, events such as World Cup matches and exhibitions between national or professional teams could receive funding from the state’s major event fund. Organizations such as FIFA, World Rugby, U.S. Soccer, and USA Rugby would be newly eligible for support from the state’s major event fund.
However, not everyone is happy with the idea of spending public money on these large events. Some argue that it takes away funding from other important priorities like education and healthcare. Others say that these events bring in more tax revenue for the state through expenditures on hotels and other goods and services by out-of-town visitors.
Despite this debate, it seems likely that Louisiana will continue to invest in hosting major sporting events like the Super Bowl and WWE Wrestlemania, as well as lesser-known events like mixed martial arts tournaments and U.S. Bowling Congress tournaments under existing law. The current budget making its way through the Louisiana Legislature plans to allocate $14 million from the major events incentive fund for next year’s events . Governor Jeff Landry had requested $10 million of that funding be allocated to Super Bowl LIX, which will be held in New Orleans in 2025 .
While New Orleans may not host the soccer World Cup in 2026 , it could potentially be a host in 2031 when America hosts and competes in the Rugby World Cup . Whether or not Louisiana decides to invest in hosting these international sporting events remains to be seen but it’s clear that they have a lot of potential benefits for both visitors and residents of Louisiana .
