The NFL’s International Series is expanding, bringing more games to cities worldwide and connecting football with fans everywhere.
The NFL is planning to hold up to eight games overseas for the 2025 season.
During an interview on NFL Network, Commissioner Roger Goodell mentioned that the league is “shooting for” eight games as part of its annual International Series. He named potential locations, including Spain, Mexico, Brazil, Germany, England, and possibly Ireland.
Spain and Ireland emerge as potential venues
The NFL has already confirmed that Spain will join its regular roster of international destinations, with Madrid’s Santiago Bernabéu Stadium set to host.
On the other hand, Ireland is gaining attention as a new possibility for the International Series.
In a conversation with Ken Maguire of The Associated Press, Henry Hodgson, general manager of the NFL’s United Kingdom office, mentioned that Dublin is being evaluated.
“There’s a feasibility study, as we would call it, in a number of different European cities and Dublin is one of those,” Hodgson said. “Looking at the stadiums, taking local meetings … we’ll take away all of that information, digest it and determine what the next steps are.”
“That’s something that’s happening in Dublin, it’s happening in Paris for example, and a number of other cities around the world as well,” he added.
Steelers may play in Dublin
On Oct. 6, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that the Pittsburgh Steelers are viewed as a “prime candidate” for a potential Dublin game.
The Steelers have long built a fan base in Ireland, dating back to a 1997 preseason game, and they’re also one of three teams designated to Ireland under the NFL’s Global Markets Program.
Last December, NFL owners approved an expansion of the International Series, allowing up to eight games starting in 2025.
With the NFL’s strong focus on global expansion, it’s no shock that Roger Goodell is eager to maximize the league’s international presence as soon as he can.
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