The NFL plans to increase its international series to eight games by 2025, focusing on France and various Asian markets. This follows successful games in Germany, Mexico, and the UK. Discussions are being held for venues and potential preseason games, aiming to strengthen global fan engagement through partnerships and activations. The Global Markets Program now involves 25 teams across 19 markets, enhancing the league’s international presence.
The National Football League (NFL) is planning to expand its international series, targeting eight games in 2025, with France and several Asian nations as potential hosts. Recent successful games in Germany, Mexico, and the UK have paved the way for this expansion. São Paulo, Brazil will feature the Philadelphia Eagles in the 2024-25 opener, with Madrid, Spain set to host its first game in 2025.
France is particularly seen as a strategic move, with discussions ongoing with Paris officials regarding the Stade de France as a venue. Brett Gosper, head of NFL Europe and APAC, stated that the league evaluates market viability and desirability before confirming game locations. The NFL is also open to considering preseason games and training camps in international markets.
Previously, the NFL has conducted exhibition matches in Tokyo, Japan and engaged in talks for games in China, which were ultimately cancelled. In France, media partnerships have been established, enhancing NFL visibility. The recent Super Bowl in France attracted an average viewership of 370,000 on M6.
Gosper emphasized the importance of forward planning in hosting NFL games, suggesting that discussions with potential venues like the Bernabeu in Madrid are vital for ensuring logistics and feasibility. The league’s international offices in various countries focus on growth markets, facilitating deeper fan engagement.
The NFL aims to enhance its presence through partnerships with local football clubs in cities where it operates. For instance, Brazilian games will be held at Corinthians’ stadium, while Madrid will utilize the Bernabeu, boosting local engagement. City-wide activations surrounding these games add to their spectacle, likening them to mini-Super Bowls.
The NFL’s Global Markets Program has expanded to include 25 teams across 19 markets, with France added recently. Teams like the Kansas City Chiefs are addressing unique market needs by tailoring content to local audiences. Events intentionally gather local fans, with clubs promoting deeper connections to the NFL, thereby driving engagement and fan loyalty.
Upcoming discussions at the SportAccord World Sport & Business Summit will focus on enhancing fan engagement strategies for U.S. sports leagues and teams, demonstrating the NFL’s commitment to international growth and market connection.
Original Source: www.sportbusiness.com
