In a determined effort to expand American football's reach beyond U.S. borders, the NFL is making significant strides in increasing its international presence this season. Building on the momentum of previous efforts, this year will see five international games played across three different countries, with a groundbreaking debut in Brazil.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell is the visionary behind this ambitious push. Under his leadership, the NFL has charted a clear path for growth. "We feel like this game is destined to be global," Goodell asserts, speaking to the broader strategy aimed at taking American football to the far corners of the globe. This vision is not limited to South America, as there are plans to have games in Madrid, Spain next season, expanding the league's footprint in Europe.
A Historic Move
This international expansion marks a historic chapter for the NFL. Playing a game in Brazil is not just a first for the league but a statement of intent. The drive to globalize American football also includes plans to reintroduce games in Mexico City, Mexico, a location the NFL has seen success in before. In addition, new cities like Paris, Dublin, and several potential sites in Australia are also on the radar, indicating a multi-continental strategy that aims to capture the imagination of sports fans worldwide.
Commitment from Every Franchise
Integral to this international push is a resolution passed by the NFL requiring every franchise to host an international game at least once every four years. This mandate means each team needs to give up a home game, thereby spreading the opportunity for international exposure evenly across the league. Goodell acknowledges the significant role this resolution plays in the NFL's global strategy: "And I think the ownership has been great on that. They've passed a resolution where every team is obligated to play outside the United States," he said, highlighting the collective commitment from all parties involved.
Eight Games a Season, and Growing
The current expansion plans cap the number of international games at eight per season. However, there is potential for these numbers to rise. "We're going to have eight games a year, minimum. And if we do get to an 18 and two (preseason games), we likely will see even more international games. And I hope someday we'll be playing 16," Goodell mentioned, underscoring the dynamism and long-term ambition behind the league's strategy.
Nurturing a Global Fanbase
The underlying objective of this global expansion is not just about staging games in different countries; it's about fostering a sustained interest in American football and building a new era of fans across the world. "We expect to be in Asia soon. We expect to be in Australia soon. We're going to make sure that our game is available around the globe," said Goodell. The intention is clear: the NFL aims to make American football as universally recognized and celebrated as soccer or basketball.
As the league prepares for this ambitious outreach, fans around the world are anticipated to witness thrilling matchups in new and exciting locales. With the strategic moves being made, the NFL's vision of globalization seems more tangible and promising than ever before.