The NFL is ramping up its international expansion efforts this season, aiming to transform its overseas games into “mini Super Bowls” for fans outside the United States, according to league officials. Following a successful debut in South America last month with a sold-out game in São Paulo, the league is set to return to London on Sunday for an exciting matchup featuring Aaron Rodgers and the New York Jets against Sam Darnold and the undefeated Minnesota Vikings at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
NFL Executive Vice President Peter O’Reilly expressed the league’s commitment to enhancing the fan experience, stating that this initiative goes beyond just the games themselves. “For us, it’s really about creating mini Super Bowls,” he remarked, emphasizing the extensive preparations surrounding the matches. The league has planned elaborate pre-game and halftime shows, as well as fan engagement activities such as pub takeovers and flag football events in London.
Sunday’s game will mark the 37th NFL matchup in London, honoring London-born two-time Super Bowl champion Osi Umenyiora and five-time Pro Bowler Jared Allen. “To me, it never gets old because there’s just such energy around these games,” O’Reilly noted, highlighting the excitement surrounding the event.
Despite prior security concerns and challenges with the playing surface, the recent contest in São Paulo between the Philadelphia Eagles and Green Bay Packers was deemed a success. The NFL is optimistic about returning to Brazil in the future, although specific plans have yet to be announced. The game featured a moving rendition of the Brazilian national anthem by Luisa Sonza and an electrifying halftime performance by pop star Anitta, showcasing the league’s ability to adapt to local cultures.
Following the Jets-Vikings game, the NFL will continue its London series with the Chicago Bears taking on the Jacksonville Jaguars on October 13, followed by the Jaguars facing the New England Patriots at Wembley Stadium on October 20. Additionally, the Carolina Panthers will face the New York Giants in Munich, Germany, at Allianz Arena on November 10.
Looking ahead, the NFL is poised to further expand its international presence with plans for its first-ever regular-season game in Spain in 2025, set to take place at Real Madrid’s iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. This ambitious international strategy underscores the league’s commitment to engaging a global audience and solidifying its status as a premier sports entertainment brand.
