Kentucky Wildcats Football: History & Traditions

Kentucky Wildcats football has represented the University of Kentucky since 1881 and enters 2026 under new head coach Will Stein, the former Oregon offensive coordinator hired after the 2025 season. Kroger Field has been the Wildcats' home since 1973 and has hosted some of the program's biggest wins of the modern SEC era.

Game day in Lexington includes the traditional pregame singing of "My Old Kentucky Home," a moment that connects the football program to the broader identity of the Commonwealth. The Wildcat mascot leads sideline energy throughout the game, and the annual Governor's Cup rivalry against Louisville closes out the regular season as one of the most anticipated matchups on the schedule for fans across the state.

Ticket Types & Seating Guide at Kroger Field

Kroger Field seats over 61,000 fans, and knowing the layout makes a real difference in choosing the right ticket.

• Sections 1-40 (Lower Level) — the closest seating to the field, running the length of the stadium.
• Section 26 (50-Yard Line, Home Side) — the premium midfield sightline on the Kentucky sideline.
• Section 6 (50-Yard Line, Visitor Side) — the premium midfield sightline on the visiting team's sideline.
• Sections 12-20 & 32-40 (End Zones) — budget-friendly seating at either end of the field with a straight-on view of scoring plays.
• 200 Level (Upper Level) — elevated seating with a wide view of the entire field.
• Student Section (Above Sections 35-36) — the designated student seating area, known for being the loudest part of the stadium.

Compare all available sections and price points for each 2026 matchup directly on this page before you buy.

Rivalry Game to Watch in 2026

Kentucky closes its 2026 regular season at home against Louisville on November 28 in the annual Governor's Cup, the state's premier in-state rivalry and one of the most attended games on Kentucky's schedule every year.

Getting to Kroger Field

Kroger Field sits on the University of Kentucky campus in Lexington, and traffic tightens considerably in the hours before kickoff for marquee SEC matchups. Parking passes for Kentucky home games are available on SOLDOUT.COM — browse Kroger Field parking lots alongside game tickets so you can lock in a spot before arriving rather than searching on game day.

Game Day Tips

• Arrive early. Lexington traffic backs up quickly on game days, especially for Alabama, LSU, and Louisville weekends.
• Plan parking ahead of time. Lots near Kroger Field sell out fastest for the biggest SEC matchups and the Governor's Cup.
• Check the forecast. September kickoffs can run hot with little shade in the upper deck; late-November games can turn cold.
• Know your section before you go. Sideline, end zone, upper level, and student sections all offer very different atmospheres.
• Don't miss the pregame anthem. "My Old Kentucky Home" is sung before kickoff and is one of the signature moments of the Kentucky game day experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Looking for other Kentucky Wildcats tickets? Visit the main Kentucky Wildcats page for basketball, baseball, and all other Wildcats sports, browse more events in Lexington, KY, or see all NCAA Football tickets on SOLDOUT.COM.