College football is adding a new destination to its postseason schedule, as the TransPerfect San Juan Bowl has officially been announced for the 2026 season. The game will bring together teams from the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and the Sun Belt Conference, creating a new opportunity for programs to compete in a historic setting.
The inaugural San Juan Bowl is scheduled for Wednesday, December 16, at Hiram Bithorn Stadium in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The matchup will mark the first NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision bowl game ever played on the island, making it a significant addition to the college football postseason.
One of the biggest storylines surrounding the announcement is the matchup between the ACC and Sun Belt. The agreement guarantees the Sun Belt a bowl opponent from an autonomy conference, providing its programs with another opportunity to face established competition outside their conference.
The new bowl also represents an important step for the Sun Belt as it continues expanding its postseason opportunities. The conference has built a reputation for competitive teams and memorable performances, and this game gives its programs another stage to showcase their talent.
TransPerfect will serve as the bowl’s title sponsor and owner. The company previously sponsored the Music City Bowl in Nashville from 2020 through 2024, giving it experience working with college football postseason events.
Beyond the football field, the game could provide a significant boost for San Juan. The event is expected to bring players, coaches, families and fans to Puerto Rico during the holiday season, creating opportunities for local hotels, restaurants and other businesses.
Hiram Bithorn Stadium has hosted major baseball events, including the World Baseball Classic, along with international soccer matches and concerts. Transforming the venue for college football will introduce the stadium to a different audience while highlighting Puerto Rico as a destination for major sporting events.
The participating teams have not yet been announced, as selections will depend on how the regular season unfolds. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Eastern time.
With a new location, a conference matchup and a chance to make history, the San Juan Bowl could quickly become an interesting addition to the college football postseason calendar.
