Chiefs will not play Taylor Swift songs at Kansas City games, Mark Donovan explains why
On Thursday, reigning two-time Super Bowl champions Kansas City Chiefs will unveil their new championship banner and host the Baltimore Ravens in the season-opener of the 2024 NFL season.
Pop icon and tight end Travis Kelce's girlfriend Taylor Swift is expected to be in attendance at Arrowhead Stadium to root for her boyfriend and the home team. However, she won't hear any of her innumerable hit songs being played inside the stadium.
In an interview with Front Office Sports, Chiefs president Mark Donovan revealed that the ban on Swift's songs is not a new policy. Explaining why the team adopted it last season and will continue enforcing it this year, he said:
“This is another conversation we had with Travis was, we did our very best to respect the relationship. Last season, in Arrowhead Stadium, we didn’t play a single Taylor Swift song during our games. And that was a sign of respect. We’re not trying to capitalize on this. We’re trying to celebrate it, but it’s not about doing too much or showing her every touchdown or anything like that. She never appeared on our big board.”
Swift was the marquee attraction at all 13 games she attended last year. While the broadcasters couldn't resist cashing in on her star power, the Chiefs aren't partaking in it. Instead, they are respecting her and Kelce's privacy and treating her like any other player's family member.
Will Taylor Swift attend the Chiefs vs. Ravens game?
While Taylor Swift's music will be absent from Arrowhead Stadium in their Week 1 clash against Lamar Jackson and the Ravens, she'll likely be present to cheer for the home team. During his interview with Front Office Sports, Donovan did not explicitly say she'll be in attendance. However, he alluded to it.
"She wants to be there to support Travis... And we are going to create that opportunity. We are going to provide that opportunity," said Donavan
If Swift attends the game, she'll be cooped in the VIP box alongside Kelce's friends and family. The pop icon has been a lucky charm for the Chiefs. They are 10-3 in the 13 games she has attended, including the Super Bowl.
The 2023 NFL season got off to a torrid start for the franchise, as they were beaten at home by the Detroit Lions. They'll look to avoid a repeat and start the new season with a win in front of their fans.