In a bold effort to globalize American football, the NFL is extending its reach beyond the traditional borders of the United States. Spearheaded by Commissioner Roger Goodell, this initiative not only aims to bring the sport to new audiences but to create a sustainable interest that nurtures a new generation of fans worldwide.
International Games This Year
The 2023 season marks a significant expansion in the NFL's international presence. This year, fans will witness five exhilarating games hosted across three different countries. Notably, the NFL will make its first historic appearance in Brazil, a move highlighting the league's commitment to tapping into new markets.
Adding to the excitement, the NFL has planned games in Madrid, Spain, next season, indicating that this year's expansion is just the beginning of a long-term strategy. As Goodell aptly put it, "We feel like this game is destined to be global."
Future Expansion Plans
The league isn't stopping at Brazil and Spain. Plans are already in the works to reestablish games in Mexico City, Mexico, a venue that has previously hosted successful NFL fixtures. Other potential new locations include Paris, Dublin, and several cities across Australia, territories that have demonstrated a growing appetite for American football.
Goodell has also hinted at the NFL's ambitions in Asia, stating, “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.” His comments reflect a strategic vision to make the NFL a truly global sport.
Mandatory International Games
In a significant move, the NFL has passed a resolution mandating that every franchise host at least one international game every four years. This unprecedented rule requires each team to give up one of their home games, ensuring a diverse range of international fixtures every season.
Goodell commended the ownership's support for this initiative, noting, "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. 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."
Aiming for a Global Fanbase
The overarching goal of this international push is to foster a sustained interest in American football across diverse regions. By hosting games in various countries, the NFL hopes to build a passionate, global fanbase that transcends local markets.
While the cap for international games currently stands at eight per season, Goodell's vision suggests that this number could increase as the league continues to expand. The commitment to making the game accessible around the world underscores the NFL's ambition to elevate American football to a global phenomenon.
As the NFL embarks on this expansive journey, it’s clear that the league is focused on more than just immediate gains. This strategy is about embedding American football into the fabric of sports culture across the globe, ensuring that future generations everywhere can enjoy the thrills of the NFL. Indeed, the path to globalization is ambitious, but the NFL appears more than ready to take on the challenge.