The National Football League (NFL) is significantly expanding its global footprint in the 2025 season, with a record number of teams participating in international games. This strategic move aims to broaden the NFL’s fanbase and tap into new markets around the world. The league is set to host seven regular-season games across five different countries, offering an unprecedented level of international exposure.
Currently, more than one-third of the NFL’s teams are scheduled to play overseas in 2025. This number is poised to increase further when the Los Angeles Chargers’ opponent for the São Paulo, Brazil, game is announced on Wednesday. The expectation is that this announcement will bring the total to two out of every five NFL teams participating in international games.
This expansion builds upon the momentum generated last year when Brazil hosted its inaugural NFL game, marking a significant step in the league’s global outreach efforts. The 2025 season promises even more milestones, including first-time NFL games in Ireland and Spain.
A notable highlight of the 2025 international schedule is the Minnesota Vikings, who will become the first NFL team to play in two different countries outside the United States in a single season. The Vikings are slated to play in Dublin, Ireland, on September 28th (Week 4) and then travel to London, England, for a game on October 5th (Week 5). This unique itinerary underscores the NFL’s commitment to diversifying its international presence.
The Pittsburgh Steelers will also be making a return to Dublin, Ireland, facing the Vikings at Croke Park. This venue holds special significance for the Steelers, as they played an exhibition game there nearly 30 years ago. The game marks a nostalgic moment for the team and its fans, while also contributing to the excitement surrounding the NFL’s expansion into new territories.
The international games in 2025 will kick off with a Week 1 matchup in São Paulo, Brazil, at Corinthians Arena on September 5th. The broadcast details for this game are still to be announced. Following the Brazil opener, U.S.-based football fans will be able to enjoy a series of Sunday morning NFL games broadcast from various international locations.
On September 28th, Croke Park in Dublin, Ireland, will host a game at 9:30 a.m. ET, which will be broadcast on NFL Network. The following two weeks, October 5th and October 12th, will feature games at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, U.K., both starting at 9:30 a.m. ET and broadcast on NFL Network. Wembley Stadium in London, U.K., will also host a game on October 19th at 9:30 a.m. ET, with coverage on NFL Network.
In November, the international series will continue with a game at the Olympic Stadium in Berlin, Germany, on November 9th at 9:30 a.m. ET, broadcast on NFL Network. The international games will culminate with a historic first-ever NFL game in Spain, held at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid on November 16th at 9:30 a.m. ET, also broadcast on NFL Network.
The selection of these international venues reflects the NFL’s strategic approach to targeting markets with significant growth potential. Brazil, with its large population and passionate fanbase, has emerged as a key market for the league. Similarly, the decision to host games in Ireland and Spain demonstrates the NFL’s commitment to expanding its reach across Europe.
The NFL’s investment in international games is not only about generating revenue but also about cultivating a global community of football fans. By bringing the excitement and drama of NFL games to new audiences, the league hopes to inspire a new generation of players and fans around the world. This international expansion aligns with the NFL’s long-term vision of becoming a truly global sport.
The decision to play games in Europe also capitalizes on the existing popularity of American football in countries like the United Kingdom and Germany. These nations have a long history of supporting NFL teams and players, and the presence of regular-season games further solidifies their connection to the sport.
The logistics of staging NFL games overseas are complex, requiring careful coordination between the league, the teams, and the local organizers. Factors such as travel arrangements, stadium preparation, and cultural adaptation must be taken into account to ensure a successful event. Despite these challenges, the NFL has consistently demonstrated its ability to execute international games flawlessly.
The NFL’s commitment to international expansion is also evident in its investment in grassroots programs. The league supports youth football initiatives in various countries, aiming to develop young talent and promote the sport at the grassroots level. These programs play a crucial role in fostering a sustainable pipeline of players and fans for the future.
As the NFL continues to expand its international presence, it is likely that we will see even more teams and countries involved in the years to come. The league’s commitment to innovation and its willingness to embrace new markets suggest that the internationalization of the NFL is a trend that is here to stay. The 2025 season marks a significant milestone in this journey, promising to bring the excitement and passion of American football to fans around the world. The games provide unique opportunities for cultural exchange, as fans from different countries come together to celebrate the sport they love. The NFL’s international games are more than just sporting events; they are cultural experiences that connect people from diverse backgrounds.
