The Washington Commanders, who have called FedEx Field in Landover, Maryland home since 1997, may finally be on their way back to Washington, D.C. after a pivotal piece of legislation cleared a major hurdle.
In the early hours of Saturday morning, the RFK Stadium Campus Revitalization Act, which outlines plans to renovate the historic Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium, passed the Senate unanimously and now heads to President Joe Biden’s desk for final approval. The president is expected to sign the bill into law, marking a significant step toward bringing the Commanders back to the nation’s capital.
A Rare Moment of Bipartisan Unity
The legislation grants Washington, D.C. control over the 190-acre RFK Stadium campus for the next 99 years. All 100 U.S. senators came together to pass the act, a rare display of bipartisan agreement. The move gives the city the opportunity to redevelop the site and potentially host the Commanders once again.
The Commanders’ lease at FedEx Field is set to expire in 2027, opening the door for the franchise to make the transition back to the District once renovations to RFK Stadium are completed.
A Dramatic Turn of Events
The RFK Stadium Campus Revitalization Act faced an uncertain path to passage. Over the past week, the legislation was repeatedly included and removed from a broader spending bill during congressional negotiations. By Friday night, many believed the act had been shelved indefinitely.
However, in a stunning early-morning decision, the Senate approved the bill, breathing new life into plans to revitalize the stadium and the surrounding area.
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D.C. Mayor and Community Push for the Commanders’ Return
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has been a vocal advocate for the Commanders’ return to the city, emphasizing the cultural and economic benefits of having the franchise back at RFK Stadium. Bowser worked tirelessly to rally support on both sides of the political aisle, even garnering backing from leaders in Maryland who recognize the significance of the team returning to its roots.
The push for the Commanders to relocate back to D.C. gained significant momentum following the sale of the team earlier this year. Former owner Daniel Snyder’s tenure was marred by controversy, and the new ownership group, led by Josh Harris, has been more open to exploring a move to RFK Stadium.
A Historic Homecoming
The Commanders, formerly known as the Washington Redskins, played at RFK Stadium from 1961 to 1996. The venue became synonymous with the team’s glory years, hosting multiple NFC Championship victories and providing a raucous home-field advantage.
Bringing the Commanders back to D.C. would mark a return to the franchise’s storied roots, while also offering fans a revitalized and modernized venue steeped in history.
Next Steps
If President Biden signs the RFK Stadium Campus Revitalization Act into law as expected, work can begin on planning the redevelopment of the site. The project is likely to include not only the renovation of the stadium but also the creation of additional amenities to benefit the community, such as green spaces, retail, and recreational facilities.
For now, the Commanders will continue to play at FedEx Field while plans for RFK Stadium take shape. Should everything proceed as envisioned, the team could be back in Washington, D.C. in time for the 2027 season.
A New Chapter for the Commanders
The passing of the RFK Stadium legislation represents a turning point for the Commanders franchise, offering a chance to reconnect with its historic past while building a brighter future. Fans, city leaders, and football enthusiasts alike are eager to see the team return to the heart of the nation’s capital, where it first captured the hearts of the community.
As the Commanders prepare for this potential homecoming, the next few years will be crucial in shaping the future of the team and its role in Washington, D.C. sports culture.
