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Bayou Classic in doubt as New Orleans mayor calls for large events to “be pushed back” to 2021

New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell called for all major events on the city’s 2020 calendar to be postponed to 2021 as the coronavirus crisis continues throughout the nation. 

“Absolutely no large events as it relates to the year of 2020,” Mayor Cantrell said during a press conference on Tuesday, April 14.  

Mayor Cantrell’s call came after 32 people in New Orleans died within a 24-hour span due to COVID-19. 

Her decision also casts doubt over the annual Bayou Classic in the city. 

First held in 1974 at Tulane Stadium in New Orleans, the college football game brings together rival universities, Grambling State and Southern A&M. 

The Bayou Classic is a major source of revenue to the city of New Orleans, as well as the state. 

In 2019, the classic attendance was 68,000 plus. 

Mayor Cantrell said as the country shows progress in regard to the pandemic, there could be a possibility of reinstating large-scale events. 

According to the Bayou Classic’s Facebook page, an official decision has not been reached as it relates to the annual game. 

Officials are continuing to move forward with its 2020 planning, but will remain in constant communication with state and local officials, as well as, administrations of both Grambling State University and Southern University.