With Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe set to officially open in just one day, Walt Disney World Resort President Jeff Vahle took an unexpected moment to publicly commend the competing theme park. This rare gesture of goodwill stands out amid the long-running rivalry between two of Central Florida’s biggest entertainment giants.
A Rivalry Continues
Vahle’s Instagram post featured a bright, stylized image of Florida framed by a radiant sunburst, paired with a message that read:
“It takes great passion and dedication to bring new projects to life. Best of luck to the Universal Orlando team with the opening of Epic Universe! Another big win for tourism in Florida.”
The timing and tone of this message have sparked conversation among fans, especially as debates continue over whether Universal Orlando is edging ahead of Walt Disney World as the top destination in Orlando. Some fans have speculated that Disney’s earlier silence suggested unease about Universal’s growing presence, making Vahle’s public congratulations a notable shift.
NEW: Walt Disney World President Jeff Vahle released a statement on the opening of Epic Universe:
“It takes great passion and dedication to bring new projects to life. Best of luck to the Universal Orlando team with the opening of Epic Universe! Another big win for tourism in… pic.twitter.com/uU33GaWxcr
— Drew Smith (@DrewDisneyDude) May 21, 2025
Which Park Reigns Supreme?
The competition between Disney and Universal is nothing new—both companies consistently vie for the attention and dollars of millions of tourists who visit Central Florida every year. Each invests heavily in new attractions, resorts, and entertainment offerings, fueling innovation and boosting the local economy.
Epic Universe marks Universal Orlando’s boldest expansion yet, featuring immersive lands, cutting-edge rides, and fresh experiences aimed at attracting even more visitors. Its launch is expected to shake up the region’s theme park landscape, adding new energy to an already fierce market.
Observers have noted that moments like these—when leaders publicly recognize their rivals’ achievements—reflect the wider benefits of a thriving theme park ecosystem. Epic Universe doesn’t just mean more thrills for guests; it also reinforces Florida’s status as a global tourism hub.
Florida’s Tourism Hub Expands
Tourism is a cornerstone of Florida’s economy. Theme parks generate jobs, fuel business growth, and contribute billions in tax revenue. The opening of a park like Epic Universe is poised to create thousands of new jobs and attract visitors worldwide, benefiting communities across the state.
Vahle’s message can also be read as a nod to how healthy competition drives improvement. Rivalry pushes companies to innovate, enhancing guest experiences and elevating the overall quality of attractions.
With Epic Universe’s launch imminent and Disney planning new experiences of its own, the next few years promise to be an exciting time for fans and Florida’s tourism industry alike. What do you think about Jeff Vahle’s statement? Will you be visiting Epic Universe? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
