AUSTIN, Texas — The origins of UT’s stadium date back to the early 1920s, a period of growing enthusiasm for college football in Texas.
On Nov. 8, 1924, the stadium opened its doors for the game between the University of Texas-Austin and UT-Arlington. Originally named "Memorial Stadium," it was designed to honor World War I veterans. The early structure was a simple horseshoe-shaped facility reflecting the classic design of the era.
Over the decades, as the popularity of college football surged, so did the need for a larger and more modern venue. Today the stadium has space for just over 100,000 fans. The most notable expansion occurred in 1996 when the south end zone was enclosed, greatly increasing seating capacity.
Also, in 1996 the stadium was renamed to honor Darrell K. Royal, the legendary head coach who led the Longhorns to national prominence during his tenure from 1957 to 1976.
From 5,000 fans at the first game to a record-breaking 105,000 in 2022 when the Longhorn faced Alabama’s Crimson Tide, the stadium now ranks as one of the largest in the U.S.
It’s been said that the impact of Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium extends beyond its physical presence. It serves as a rallying point for alumni, students, and fans, creating a sense of unity and tradition that spans generations.