A new era in Tampa Bay sportsd on September 20, 1998, when the Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeated the Chicago Bears, 27-15, in the inaugural event at Raymond James Stadium.
The culmination of three years of intense research, development and construction, Raymond James Stadium is a combination of the finest elements of modern stadium design and its own groundbreaking innovations. Referred to as 'The Crown Jewel of the NFL' by league insiders, the stadium's features are centered around one concept: enhancing the fan's experience at a Tampa Bay Buccaneers game. Raymond James Stadium was designed by HOK Sports Facilities Group and constructed under the joint management of Huber, Hunt & Nichols and Metric Constructors. It is administered by the Tampa Sports Authority and includes among its tenants the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League, the Tampa Bay Mutiny of Major League Soccer and the University of South Florida football team.
Bryan Glazer and Joel Glazer, team executive vice presidents, oversaw stadium design and were responsible for the development of the stadium's unique fan enhancements including the three million dollar pirate ship in Buccaneer Cove. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers hope you enjoy Raymond James Stadium and share in the bright future of the team, the stadium and the Tampa Bay Community.