The NFL plans to expand its international series to eight games by 2025, targeting France and Asia as new markets. Successful games have been held in Germany, Mexico, and the UK, with future matches scheduled in São Paulo and Madrid. The league emphasizes strong local partnerships and engagement strategies to enhance fan experiences and foster a global NFL presence.
The NFL is set to expand its international series to eight games by 2025, aiming to enter France and several Asian countries as new markets. Successful games have already taken place in Germany, Mexico, and the UK. The upcoming season will kick off with a game in São Paulo featuring the Philadelphia Eagles, while Madrid is poised to host an NFL game in 2025.
Discussions have occurred between the NFL and Paris officials regarding the Stade de France as a potential venue. Brett Gosper, the NFL’s Europe and APAC head, emphasized the importance of analyzing the viability and desirability of new locations for NFL games. The league is considering preseason games and training camps internationally as part of its growth strategy.
In Asia, Gosper highlighted past exhibitions in Tokyo and the league’s interest in staging matches there again, alongside other potential Asian markets. The NFL also plans to increase its media presence in France, with renewed partnerships and a strong viewer turnout during the Super Bowl. Media partners in China continue to provide coverage through multiple platforms, alongside similar arrangements in Japan.
Interest in hosting NFL games has surged, leading to proactive discussions about several venues. The league aims to assess how suitable these stadiums are for future games. There’s also an emphasis on creating engagement opportunities via local clubs, enriching the fan experience in international markets.
The NFL’s international events aim to generate excitement comparable to the Super Bowl through extensive local marketing and partnerships, including collaborations with local football clubs. Events will evolve into large spectacles with sponsor activations and fan zones, enhancing the NFL’s visibility in these new locales.
The NFL Global Markets Program now involves 25 teams across 19 markets, promoting further engagement with fans. New Orleans Saints recently gained marketing rights in France, illustrating the league’s continued push into new territories. This initiative facilitates deeper fan connections while expanding the NFL’s presence globally.
In Germany, the Kansas City Chiefs have become prominent after playing there, and they actively seek to cater to local fan preferences. NFL executives will present on the importance of fan engagement at the upcoming SportAccord World Sport & Business Summit 2024 in Birmingham, UK, showcasing the league’s commitment to international growth and partnerships.
Original Source: www.sportbusiness.com
