In a bold and ambitious move, the NFL is taking significant strides towards globalizing American football. Showcasing an aggressive commitment to expanding its international footprint, the league will host five engaging international games across three different countries this year alone. This expansion is set to reach an exciting milestone with the NFL's historic debut in Brazil.
Beyond Brazil, the NFL's international plans are extensive and far-reaching. Anticipation is building for next season, with games scheduled to take place in Madrid, Spain. NBA Commissioner Roger Goodell, the visionary behind these expansive plans, has been pivotal in pushing the boundaries of the sport. Expressing his belief in the global appeal of American football, Goodell remarked, "We feel like this game is destined to be global."
A Global Vision
Goodell's enthusiasm for international expansion is matched by strategic and thoughtful planning. "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 declared. This vision extends even further as the NFL explores new territories and cities, including Paris, Dublin, and several potential locations in Australia. Furthermore, plans to reestablish games in Mexico City, Mexico, reaffirm the league's commitment to solidifying its presence in key international markets.
Transformative Changes
The NFL's global aspirations aren't just about playing games overseas; they are about embedding American football deeply into the sporting culture of various countries. To this end, the league has passed a resolution that mandates every franchise to host an international game at least once every four years. This requirement means each team will have to relinquish one of their home games, symbolizing a concerted effort to engage fans beyond the United States. "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 elaborated.
Future Potential
While the current cap on international games sits at eight per season, there is a palpable sense of momentum aimed at increasing that number. Goodell has hinted at the possibility of having even more international fixtures if the league moves toward an 18-game regular season with a shorter preseason. "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 speculated, showcasing his ambitious outlook for the future of the sport.
Ultimately, the NFL's global expansion is about more than just the current schedule of games; it's about nurturing a new era of international fans and securing sustained interest from diverse regions. This vision aims to transform the NFL into a truly global phenomenon, allowing fans from every corner of the world to experience the thrill of American football. As the league pushes forward with these plans, the world will be watching, and fans both old and new will be eagerly awaiting the chance to witness NFL action live in their home countries.