State Fair of Texas canceled, Red River Showdown still on for now
The 2020 State Fair of Texas has been canceled, but for now, that does not have an effect on the the annual Red River Rivalry matchup between Texas and Oklahoma.
On Tuesday morning, the event’s website had the following statement on the State Fair of Texas. It was scheduled to take place from Sept. 25 through Oct. 18.
“With a heavy heart, we are announcing that the State Fair of Texas will not open for the 2020 season,” the statement said. “We believe the spirit of the Lone Star state lies in every Texan’s ability to care and look out for their neighbor and it is with this in mind, we have decided to keep our guests, staff, and partners safe and healthy during these uncertain time. Click the button below to find out more information about this news, including refund information for those who have already purchased a ticket. We look forward to giving y’all a great big Howdy in 2021.”
At this time, it does not appear that the cancellation will have an impact on the Texas-Oklahoma game. The rivalry showdown is currently scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 10.
“While the State Fair of Texas is canceled for 2020, the NCAA, respective conferences, and participating universities – the University of Texas & University of Oklahoma and Prairie View A&M University & Grambling State University – will be in charge of making decisions regarding the football games that occur at Cotton Bowl Stadium during this unprecedented time of COVID-19,” the statement read. “Should football be played this fall, the schools will be playing in the Cotton Bowl as scheduled, despite the cancellation of the 2020 State Fair. We will share those details as soon as we know more.”
Texas leads the all-time series against Oklahoma 62-48-5. The Sooners have dominated the series recently, however, winning four of the last five matchups.