The Seattle Times The Seattle Times
Will the Apple Cup survive? It’s complicated for Washington, WSU
## Will the Apple Cup Survive? It's Complicated. The future of the Apple Cup, a rivalry steeped in over a century of tradition between the Washington Huskies and Washington State Cougars, hangs in the balance. While the immediate future appears secure—both teams recently signed a five-year agreement to continue the series—beyond 2029, uncertainty reigns. This situation stems directly from Washington’s departure for the Big Ten and Washington State’s subsequent inability to secure a comparable conference home. Currently, there’s no contract guaranteeing the game’s continuation after this initial five-year window. Negotiations between the universities and the incoming Pac-12 members (Oregon State and Utah) have proven challenging, with key sticking points revolving around revenue sharing and conference affiliation. The lack of a binding agreement means the Apple Cup’s fate rests on ongoing discussions and a willingness from all parties to prioritize the historic rivalry. **Here's a breakdown of the key factors influencing the Apple Cup's survival:** 1. **Conference Stability:** The Pac-12’s ongoing restructuring is paramount. A stable, financially viable conference would provide a stronger foundation for maintaining the series. 2. **Negotiating Power:** Washington State's bargaining position is weaker without a conference affiliation. 3. **Fan Demand:** The enduring passion for the Apple Cup provides significant leverage, though it alone cannot guarantee its future. 4. **Institutional Commitment:** Ultimately, the universities must prioritize the game and be willing to compromise. For deeper insight into the broader landscape of the former Pac-12, check out our article, "Where Washington Huskies, WSU Cougars are projected to go bowling.
