The NFL’s commitment to global expansion reached a new peak in , with a record seven regular-season games played outside of the United States. The initiative, spanning Europe and beyond, isn’t simply about short-term revenue gains, but a long-term strategy to cultivate international fandom, according to league officials.
A European Tour: From Dublin to Madrid
The kickoff of the international schedule saw the Pittsburgh Steelers face the Minnesota Vikings at Croke Park in Dublin, Ireland – a historic first for the country, hosting its inaugural regular season NFL game. The Vikings’ international commitment didn’t end there; they continued their journey to London the following week, , to battle the Cleveland Browns at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. This marked the 40th regular season game to be played in the UK capital.
Tottenham Hotspur Stadium continued to host NFL action on , as the New York Jets took on the Denver Broncos. Wembley Stadium also featured prominently in the London leg of the schedule, hosting the Jacksonville Jaguars against the Los Angeles Rams on . This was the Jaguars’ 14th game in London, demonstrating a sustained commitment to building a fanbase in the United Kingdom.
Germany and Spain Enter the NFL Landscape
The NFL’s international footprint expanded further with its first foray into Berlin, Germany, on . The Indianapolis Colts hosted the Atlanta Falcons at the Olympic Stadium Berlin, marking the fifth regular season game played in Germany, having previously hosted games in Munich and Frankfurt. This game signaled the league’s dedication to establishing a strong presence in the German market.
The 2025 international schedule culminated in Madrid, Spain, on , with the Miami Dolphins facing the Washington Commanders at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home of Real Madrid C.F. This represented the league’s first-ever regular season game in Spain, a significant milestone in its global expansion efforts.
Beyond the Games: A Strategic Shift
The decision to stage seven international games in reflects a broader strategic shift within the NFL. While the financial benefits of tapping into new markets are undeniable, the league emphasizes a focus on fostering genuine fandom growth. This approach, as highlighted by industry analysts, prioritizes long-term engagement over immediate profits.
The NFL’s expansion isn’t limited to simply playing games abroad. The league is actively working to build year-round engagement in international markets, suggesting initiatives beyond the annual series of international contests. This includes developing local partnerships, grassroots programs and tailored broadcast strategies to cater to international audiences.
Looking Ahead: Continued Global Ambition
The success of the international series has fueled further ambition within the NFL. League officials have indicated a desire to expand beyond the current schedule of seven international games, but any increase would require negotiation with the NFL Players Association, as outlined in the Collective Bargaining Agreement. Specifically, the CBA stipulates that any expansion beyond ten international games would necessitate prior discussion and agreement between owners and player representatives.
The addition of new destinations like Dublin, Madrid, and Berlin demonstrates the NFL’s willingness to explore untapped markets. The league’s global strategy appears to be evolving, with a clear emphasis on identifying and cultivating passionate fan bases in key international territories. The long-term implications of this expansion remain to be seen, but the season undoubtedly marked a pivotal moment in the NFL’s journey to become a truly global sport.
The NFL’s international games are not merely exhibition matches; they are regular-season contests with significant implications for team standings and playoff contention. This commitment to competitive integrity underscores the league’s seriousness about establishing a legitimate presence in international markets.
