Ever since 2011, the Las Vegas Raiders have honored their late owner, Al Davis, before every game by lighting the Al Davis Memorial Torch. Here’s everything you need to know about the tradition and the Raiders legends who have lit the torch over the years.
Raiders Found Unique Way to Honor the Late Al Davis
Davis was the team’s principal owner and general manager from 1972 until he died in 2011, and the torch is lit before every game in his honor.
Here’s what the Raiders’ website says about this pregame tradition: “Prior to every game, the team and the fans pay tribute to Mr. Davis by lighting the Al Davis Memorial Torch in his honor. The torch is a tribute to Mr. Davis’ legacy as the Raiders’ long-time owner, Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee, AFL Coach of the Year, AFL Commissioner, and the architect of the Raiders’ Commitment to Excellence… in recognition of Mr. Davis’ enduring vision that “the fire that burns brightest in the Raiders’ organization is the will to win.'”
The tradition started after the passing of Davis in 2011, and the torch received a major upgrade when Allegiant Stadium was built. When the new stadium opened in 2020, fans were thrilled to see the enormous 85-foot torch, making it the largest 3D-printed object in the world.
This has elevated the tradition even more, as the structure sits behind lanai doors and is the centerpiece of the stadium.
The torch is made of carbon fiber and aluminum, and the flame consists of a mixture of lights and special effects. Before each game, a special guest lights the torch.
Raiders legendary head coach John Madden fittingly became the first person to light the torch in 2011, when it featured a real flame. Madden was hired by Davis in the 1960s and became one of the most successful coaches in NFL history before becoming a beloved broadcaster.
Prior to the final game of the 2011 season, owner Mark Davis honored his father by lighting the torch. The first person to light the new torch in 2020 was Davis’ wife, Carol Davis.
Carol Davis, wife of the late Al Davis and mother to owner Mark Davis, lights the Al Davis Memorial Torch for the first time in Las Vegas.
Truly a moment we won't forget. #RaiderNation pic.twitter.com/TVfaaB14Mw
— Las Vegas Raiders (@Raiders) September 22, 2020
Throughout the years, the Raiders have invited Raiders alumni, celebrities, and other notable names to light the torch, including Jim Otto, Fred Biletnikoff, Jim Plunkett, Marcus Allen, Jon Gruden, Art Shell, Bo Jackson, Charles Woodson, Nnamdi Asomugha, Tim Brown, Ronnie Lott, Andre Ward, Rickey Henderson, George Lopez, Howie Long, MC Hammer, Marshawn Lynch, Sebastian Janikowski, Rich Gannon, CC Sabathia, Mike Tyson, Ice Cube, Tyrone Wheatley, the Las Vegas Aces, and the Vegas Golden Knights, among others.
Prior to tonight’s Monday Night Football game against the Atlanta Falcons, former Raiders defensive lineman Bill Pickel will light the torch.