NFL Unveils Bold Plans for International Expansion Over the Next Two Seasons

NFL Unveils Bold Plans for International Expansion Over the Next Two Seasons

The NFL is making significant strides in expanding its global presence. This expansion will manifest in thrilling new opportunities for fans overseas and a broadened reach for one of America’s most cherished sports.

New Host Cities for NFL Regular-Season Games

For the first time, Dublin, Madrid, and Berlin will host NFL regular-season games starting next year. This announcement was made just days prior to the much-anticipated Super Bowl, highlighting the league’s commitment to growing its international footprint.

Additionally, in a groundbreaking move, the Los Angeles Rams are set to host a game in Melbourne, Australia, in 2026. This marks the first occasion an NFL game will take place on Australian soil, adding a new dimension to the league’s international engagement.

Historic Croke Park to Feature Pittsburgh Steelers

One of the standout matchups will see the Pittsburgh Steelers play at the iconic Croke Park in Dublin. Although the opponent is yet to be confirmed, the significance of this event is palpable. Peter O’Reilly, the NFL’s executive vice president for international events, expressed his excitement: “I think the emotion you hear from all of us is the excitement to bring a regular-season game to Ireland. It ultimately comes back to the fans.”

Croke Park has a rich history and a seating capacity of over 82,000, making it a fitting venue for this landmark occasion. O’Reilly emphasized the unique atmosphere expected from such an event: “This is a game on Irish soil, in Dublin, at Croke Park, which presents an incredible opportunity for the fans.”

Games Scheduled Across Europe

The NFL’s international expansion does not stop with Ireland. The Indianapolis Colts will serve as the home team at the Olympic Stadium in Berlin, while the Miami Dolphins will represent in Madrid. The Dolphins will feature at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home to the famed Real Madrid soccer team.

In 2026, the Rams will also host a highly anticipated match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, a venue capable of accommodating around 100,000 fans. This arrangement is part of a multi-year agreement that aims to regularly bring NFL games to Australia.

A Commitment to Global Growth

The NFL’s international ambitions signify a strong dedication to diversifying its audience. O’Reilly remarked on the broader vision for the league: “This is a big statement. A few years ago, you may not have thought this was a reality. There’s a commitment to become a true global sports entity, expanding our footprint and exposing more fans around the world to our sport.”

To maximize the experience for teams and fans alike, the game in Melbourne is likely to occur in Week 1 of the season, facilitating an adjustment to the significant time-zone differences.

Future International Game Plans

The NFL is considering hosting up to eight games internationally by 2025. London remains a focal point for this strategy, with three games scheduled there. Both the New York Jets and the Cleveland Browns will host games at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, while the Jets will also play at Wembley Stadium.

While these ventures represent substantial growth, the Irish market is uniquely the smallest that the NFL has entered to date. However, this also signifies new and exciting opportunities to engage with a fanbase eager for such experiences.

Expanding the Fan Experience

Moreover, the NFL is contemplating innovative formats, including potentially having a team play consecutive weeks in different European cities—an effort aimed at expanding the sport’s global influence.

The Kansas City Chiefs will face the Philadelphia Eagles in this year’s Super Bowl on Sunday, marking a major event in American sports. Coverage begins at 1 p.m. ET, providing fans with ample opportunity to engage with this monumental game. For the first time, fans can also stream this coverage live on Tubi.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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