In an ambitious bid to expand the reach of American football, the NFL is significantly broadening its international horizons. This season alone, fans will be treated to five thrilling international games spanning three different countries, a move that underscores the league's commitment to globalizing the sport.
For the first time in its history, the NFL is set to make a landmark appearance in Brazil, marking a significant milestone in the league's international endeavors. Complementing this groundbreaking venture, plans are already in motion to bring games to Madrid, Spain, next season. The momentum doesn't stop there; the NFL is also exploring opportunities in Paris, Dublin, and various potential locations across Australia.
Driving the Vision
The driving force behind this expansive vision is none other than NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, who has been steadfast in his mission to bring American football to a global audience. "We feel like this game is destined to be global," Goodell stated, encapsulating the league's aspiration to transcend borders.
Goodell's vision is both ambitious and comprehensive. "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," he said, emphasizing the league's dedication to making American football a truly international sport.
Ownership and Commitment
The league's ownership has shown immense support for this global push. One of the key components of this strategy is a resolution requiring every NFL franchise to host an international game at least once every four years. This means that each team will have to forfeit a home game to participate, a testament to the collective commitment to growing the sport internationally.
"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 as teams have to give up a home game once every four years). We're going to have eight games a year, minimum," Goodell explained. This foundational decision ensures a steady influx of international games, fostering a broader fan base and cultivating new markets.
Future Prospects
The current plans cap the number of international games at eight per season, a figure that could increase if the league expands its schedule. "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 remarked, hinting at a future where international games form an even more integral part of the NFL season.
Additionally, the NFL is looking to reestablish games in Mexico City, Mexico, a location where the league has enjoyed past successes. This blend of revisiting familiar territories while exploring new ones like Paris and Dublin is a balanced approach aimed at both reinforcing existing fan bases and igniting new ones.
Nurturing New Fans
The overarching goal of this global expansion is to secure sustained interest and nurture a new era of fans internationally. The NFL is not merely exporting games; it's exporting the culture, excitement, and community that comes with them. By bringing American football to diverse locales, the league aims to foster a deeper connection with international fans, ensuring the sport's growth well into the future.
In summary, the NFL's strategic expansion plan is a calculated and compelling effort to globalize American football. With Roger Goodell at the helm, and the unwavering support of the league's ownership, this vision is quickly becoming a reality, one international game at a time. As the NFL continues to break new ground and reach unprecedented territories, the future of American football looks more global than ever before.