Industry News

Santa Clara Mayor slams 49ers over Levi’s Stadium ‘trust’ issues

Santa Clara Mayor Lisa Gillmor has revealed details of a strained relationship between the California city and the San Francisco 49ers, regarding the NFL American football team’s activities at the Levi’s Stadium.

The 49ers moved into the venue three years ago, but Mayor Gillmor said that the city is unhappy with a number of issues related to the stadium.

According to the San Francisco Chronicle newspaper, Mayor Gillmor cited issues such as security cost overruns, curfew violations and a request for a reduction in rent just some of the problems that have become apparent over past three years.

“We learned we cannot trust the 49ers,” Mayor Gillmor said. “They are our partners, but they have exploited what we’ve tried to do in the city.

“They recognised the fact that we were ill prepared … they were professional; they knew what they were doing.”

Mayor Gillmor also hit out at money due to the city, with such funds supposed to come from non-NFL profits, while the team retains all revenue generated from football activities at the venue.

“We are not able to verify the numbers they give us,” Mayor Gillmor said. “They lump them together without detailed financial information in dozens of areas. Dozens.”

Image: Jim Bahn