NFL’s Global Expansion: A 2025 World Tour

The National Football League (NFL), traditionally a North American sporting institution, is aggressively pursuing a strategy of global expansion. No longer content with dominating just the American sports landscape, the league is actively seeking to broaden its fanbase and generate new revenue streams by exporting its brand of football to international markets. This ambitious plan for 2025 involves taking seven regular season games outside the United States, introducing the sport to new audiences and solidifying its presence in established international markets.

This isn’t simply a novelty venture. The NFL is a multi-billion dollar enterprise, and its decision to invest heavily in international games reflects a calculated business strategy. The league recognizes the immense potential for growth in untapped markets, where millions of potential fans await exposure to the exciting and strategically complex game. It would be fiscally irresponsible for the league to overlook the financial gains presented by global expansion.

While much of the world associates "football" with soccer, the NFL aims to redefine the term by showcasing its unique brand of athleticism and strategy. The expansion strategy for 2025 will bring games to established markets such as London, Germany and Brazil while also introducing the sport to new audiences in Dublin, Ireland and Madrid, Spain.

The 2025 International Slate: A Detailed Breakdown

Seven international games are slated for the 2025 season, marking a significant commitment to the league’s global ambitions. Let’s delve into the specific matchups, venues, and storylines that will define this year’s international series:

• Week 1: Kansas City Chiefs vs. Los Angeles Chargers (Sao Paulo, Brazil)

  The season kicks off internationally with the second annual Sao Paulo game. This contest pits two AFC West rivals against each other in a highly anticipated matchup. Brazil has shown great enthusiasm for American football in recent years, making it a crucial market for the NFL to cultivate. The inaugural game in Sao Paulo in 2024 saw the Philadelphia Eagles begin a Super Bowl-winning year; both the Chiefs and Chargers will be hoping to repeat this trend. The Chiefs, perennial Super Bowl contenders, bring star power and championship pedigree to Brazil, while the Chargers, led by a young quarterback, will aim to make a statement.

• Week 4: Cleveland Browns vs. TBD (London, England)

  The Cleveland Browns will be traveling across the Atlantic to introduce British fans to their brand of football. With expectations for the 2025 season muted, this game offers Cleveland an opportunity to surprise fans and perhaps establish an international following. With questions surrounding the Browns’ quarterback situation, speculation is running wild, including the possibility of college standout Shedeur Sanders being under center for the Browns in London.

• Week 5: New York Jets vs. TBD (London, England)

  The New York Jets are no strangers to international games, with this marking their fourth trip to London. However, their previous international ventures have been largely unsuccessful, with a 1-2 record, including a loss to the Vikings in 2024. Hoping to reverse their fortunes, the Jets will feature a new head coach, Aaron Glenn, who is tasked with turning around a franchise mired in mediocrity for over a decade. The Jets will hope for a successful overseas trip to ignite momentum to propel the team to its first playoff appearance in over a decade.

• Week 6: Jacksonville Jaguars vs. TBD (London, England)

  The Jacksonville Jaguars have cultivated a strong following in London, making the city a de facto second home for the franchise. Their consistent presence in the London games has solidified their fan base and made them a recognizable brand in the United Kingdom. All eyes will be on rookie sensation Travis Hunter, as the Jaguars introduce the young player to an international audience. With Trevor Lawrence returning from injury and new offensive coordinator Liam Coen hoping to rejuvenate the squad, the Jaguars are hoping for a triumphant return to their home away from home.

• Week 8: Indianapolis Colts vs. TBD (Munich, Germany)

  The Indianapolis Colts’ international appearance in Munich is filled with uncertainty. The primary concern revolves around their quarterback situation. If Anthony Richardson lives up to his potential, the Colts could become an electrifying team, making for an exciting spectacle in Germany. However, if Richardson struggles and the Colts underperform, head coach Shane Steichen might find himself under immense pressure and potential replacement. The game in Germany presents a high-risk, high-reward opportunity for the Colts.

• Week 10: Miami Dolphins vs. Washington Commanders (Madrid, Spain)

  The Miami Dolphins have the honor of hosting the NFL’s inaugural game in Spain, marking a historic moment for the league’s expansion efforts. Miami will face the Washington Commanders, led by rookie of the year quarterback Jayden Daniels. The Commanders, fresh off a surprising playoff appearance and bolstered by new ownership, will aim to continue their success in the international spotlight. The Dolphins, eager to rebound from a disappointing 2024 season, will see the international game in Spain as a vital opportunity to get back on track and energize their fan base.

• Week 11: TBD vs. TBD (Dublin, Ireland)

  The NFL will make its debut in Dublin, Ireland, which will be an exciting moment for Irish fans. This expansion into Ireland further demonstrates the league’s commitment to reaching new audiences and establishing a global presence. The specific teams playing in Dublin will be announced later, but the game is guaranteed to generate considerable interest in Ireland, a country with a long history of sports fandom.

Implications and Future Outlook

The NFL’s international push carries significant implications for the league’s future. Beyond the immediate financial gains, the international games are designed to cultivate a new generation of fans, increase the sport’s global appeal, and strengthen the NFL’s brand recognition worldwide.

Success in these international markets will require more than just exporting the games. The NFL must invest in grassroots programs, develop local talent, and tailor its marketing efforts to resonate with different cultural contexts. It’s a long-term investment, but the potential rewards are substantial.

If the 2025 international games are successful, the NFL is likely to expand its global footprint further, potentially adding new markets, increasing the number of international games, and even exploring the possibility of establishing a permanent international franchise. The NFL’s world tour is more than just a series of games; it’s a strategic initiative to transform the league into a truly global sporting power.