THE OAKLAND RAIDERS are moving to Las Vegas in 2020.
The NFL owners approved the move today on a 31-1 vote, with the Miami Dolphins the lone team that voted in opposition.
“My father always said, ‘the greatness of the Raiders is in its future,’ and the opportunity to build a world-class stadium in the entertainment capital of the world is a significant step toward achieving that greatness,” the franchise’s owner Mark Davis said in a statement.
“I would like to thank Commissioner Goodell, the National Football League and my 31 partners. I would also like to thank Governor Brian Sandoval and the Nevada Legislature for their commitment. Finally, I would like to thank Sheldon Adelson for his vision and leadership, without which this project never would have become a reality.”
“The Raiders were born in Oakland and Oakland will always be part of our DNA,” he added.
“We know that some fans will be disappointed and even angry, but we hope that they do not direct that frustration to the players, coaches and staff.
“We plan to play at the Coliseum in 2017 and 2018, and hope to stay there as the Oakland Raiders until the new stadium opens. We would love nothing more than to bring a championship back to the Bay Area.”
The Raiders are planning to build a 65,000-seat domed arena in Las Vegas. They’re set to play at least one more season in Oakland and have the option to renew their lease at the Coliseum in 2018.
They may opt to share Levi’s Stadium with the San Francisco 49ers in 2019.
