The NFL has announced that Monday’s playoff game between the Minnesota Vikings and the Los Angeles Rams has been relocated to Arizona due to devastating wildfires in the Los Angeles region. The Wild Card game will now be held at the Arizona Cardinals’ home stadium in Glendale, a decision made for public safety after consultations with local authorities, the participating teams, and the NFL Players Association.
VIKINGS-RAMS RELOCATION: In the interest of public safety, Monday’s Vikings vs. Rams Wild Card game has been moved to Arizona.
The game will be televised on ESPN/ABC/ESPN+ at its scheduled 8pm ET time. pic.twitter.com/VVJcRZrSYM
— NFL (@NFL) January 10, 2025
Rams quarterback Matt Stafford expressed the team’s commitment to representing Los Angeles, regardless of the venue. “Every time we suit up, we’re the Los Angeles Rams. We play for the people in this community, the people that support us, and this week will be another example of that,” Stafford stated.
The wildfires, which have become the worst in California’s history, have wreaked havoc across Los Angeles County. Two massive, uncontained fires have caused immense destruction, killing at least seven people, destroying thousands of homes and businesses, and forcing nearly 180,000 residents to evacuate, with another 200,000 under evacuation warnings.
The Lakers also postponed their Thursday matchup against the Charlotte Hornets, citing the ongoing natural disaster. In a statement, the team shared their condolences and gratitude: “We’re heartbroken for Los Angeles. Our thoughts are with all those impacted by this unimaginable situation. And our gratitude is with the first responders and all of you who come together when we need each other the most.”