Start of biggest party in American sport

Las Vegas – The biggest party in American sport is about to get even bigger tomorrow when Las Vegas hosts the San Francisco 49ers and Kansas City Chiefs in what promises to be a Super Bowl blockbuster for the ages.

The first-ever NFL championship finale to be staged in the glittering Nevada gambling metropolis was always going to be a money-spinning bonanza.

But the budding romance between pop superstar Taylor Swift and the Chiefs’ charismatic Travis Kelce virtually guarantees this year’s showpiece has already hit the jackpot.

The Swift-Kelce phenomenon has sent NFL viewing figures skyrocketing, and there is every chance tomorrow’s spectacular will eclipse the record 115.1 million who tuned in to watch last year’s Super Bowl, when the Chiefs defeated the Philadelphia Eagles.

Swift is expected to jet to ‘Sin City’ immediately after performing in Tokyo tonight to cheer on her beau Kelce.

The singer will be among a crowd of celebrities, VIPs and high-rollers packed into the 65 000-seat Allegiant Stadium to see if Kelce and the Chiefs can clinch a third Super Bowl crown in five seasons.

Las Vegas – once shunned by the NFL but now an increasingly important US sporting hub – has been crackling with anticipation in the final days before tomorrpw’s big game.

The Federal Aviation Administration estimates around 500 private jets will touch down in Las Vegas for the game, while city officials say they expect an influx of more than 300 000 visitors.

A horde of tourists will flock to casinos, nightclubs and celebrity-hosted watch parties being laid on in addition to Las Vegas’ regular array of concerts featuring stars such as U2, Adele, Christina Aguilera and Green Day.

Those lucky enough to have secured a ticket for the game, which includes a half-time show by R&B star Usher, will have paid handsomely for the privilege.

The cheapest seats available on ticketing website Stubhub weigh in at a hefty $5 542; the most expensive an eye-watering $56 700.

The American Gaming Association, meanwhile, expects a record 67.8 million Americans – around a quarter of the country’s adult population – to place a bet on the Super Bowl, generating an estimated $23.1 billion.

In the maelstrom of partying and revelry, it has been almost easy to overlook the fact that in the middle of it all is a c;assic sporting contest.

The Chiefs are playing in their fourth Super Bowl in five seasons, hoping to cement their dynasty status with a third Vince Lombardi Trophy after wins in 2020 and 2023.

Kansas City quarterback Patrick Mahomes will join Tom Brady, Terry Bradshaw and Troy Aikman as the only quarterbacks to win three or more Super Bowls if the Chiefs are victorious. –