WATCH: CFB National Championship ‘Crown Jewel’ for Indy

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For a city that has built a brand by hosting world class sporting events, it is yet another big win. "It is a crown jewel for us," said Indiana Sports Corp. Senior Vice President Susan Baughman, reacting to news that Indianapolis will host the 2022 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Lucas Oil Stadium. Indy did not bid on the event. College Football Playoff made a surprise call inviting the city to host the 2022 game and four days of events and festivities. "They contacted us and said we love Indy and we’d love to be there in 2022, can you make it happen," said Indiana Sports Corporation President Ryan Vaughn, who adds the economic impact and visibility form the event will be enormous. "Frankly, our calling card in Indy is we take these events and invest in them and make them spectacular… we’re conservatively saying in excess of $150 million in economic impact, but I’m saying it will be far greater."

Vaughn says the invitation to host college football’s biggest event prompted business, political and community leaders to leap into action. He tells Inside Indiana Business that local organizers anticipate raising about $16 million in private funds to host the 2022 national championship event, but says that number could go higher.

A fan fest and themed music, food and tailgating festivities will be part of a four-day event that will begin Friday, January 7, leading up to the national championship game in Lucas Oil Stadium Monday, January 10.

Visit Indy Chief Executive Officer Leonard Hoops believes the weekend will bring more than 100,000 visitors to Indianapolis. It will also once again shine a global spotlight on a city that now boasts the tagline, "Where Champions are Crowned."

The local Host Committee for the event will be chaired by Angie’s List Chief Operating Officer Mark Howell. Citizens Energy Group Chief Executive Officer Jeff Harrison will serve as vice chair and the ISC’s Baughman as president.