Duke’s Mayo Classic Brings In $48.8 Million To Charlotte

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Duke’s Mayo Classic brought nearly $49 million to the Charlotte region.

Charlotte Sports Foundation announced the two college football games brought in more than 85,000 people.

The Labor Day weekend set a record for the fourth largest event Charlotte hosted in regards to hotel rooms booked.

“Strategic events like the Duke’s Mayo Classic elevate the Charlotte region in so many ways,” said Tom Murray, Chief Executive Officer of CRVA. “They draw thousands of visitors, boost activity at hotels, restaurants and other local businesses, and shine a spotlight on the Queen City so that more people see what an exciting place Charlotte is to experience. As we’ve been implementing pandemic recovery marketing efforts, we’re grateful for the partnerships that made the 2021 Duke’s Mayo Classic so memorable and impactful to the hospitality industry.”

The Georgia versus Clemson game is now the third most attended game in Bank of America Stadium history.

The two games also resulted in $26.2 million in direct visitor spending and $1.47 million in Mecklenburg County sales and hospitality taxes, according to a news release.

“These numbers are just one indicator that demonstrate the amazing impact sports can have on our great city,” said CSF Board of Directors co-chairs Andrea Smith and Johnny Harris. “Events like the Duke’s Mayo Classic games bring visitors from around the country which are vital for the success of our hospitality industry.”