Do sports have a future at Oakland Coliseum? The A's may hold the keys.

"The Oakland A's last played baseball in this city over a year ago, but the franchise still holds both a potential ownership stake in the Coliseum and the decisive ability to reject groups that seek a longer residency there. It is an uncomfortable arrangement that comes at a turning point for the Coliseum property, where lucrative private events could bring an end to live sports played at the iconic stadium."

"A key condition of the agreement approved by Alameda County is the A's power to veto it through the franchise's real-estate company, Coliseum Way Partners. Only the A's, Raiders and Warriors have ever held such an agreement at the site. Because the A's may soon come into partial ownership of the stadium-arena complex, it may decide the costs associated with a long-term tenant are not worth it. I think you can read between the lines, said county Supervisor Nate Miley, who sits on an appointed body that oversees the Coliseum."

The Oakland A's last played in the city over a year ago but retain a potential ownership stake in the Coliseum and veto authority via Coliseum Way Partners. Coliseum officials are evaluating whether the Oakland Roots should receive a special events permit for 17 home games in 2026 or qualify for a full licensing agreement with greater legal complexity. Only the A's, Raiders and Warriors have held full agreements at the site. The A's may decline long-term tenants because of overhead and cost concerns. Live events at the 60-year-old Coliseum have seldom produced strong profits and attendance has lagged.

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