In a bold move to extend its reach beyond American shores, the NFL is intensifying its mission to globalize American football. The league's efforts are particularly evident this year, with a schedule that includes five enticing international games spread across three countries. This ambitious initiative represents a significant step in embracing a new worldwide audience.
Expanding Horizons in Brazil and Beyond
For the first time, the NFL is set to make its debut appearance in Brazil, adding yet another country to its expanding roster of international locations. This landmark event signifies the league’s commitment to capturing the hearts of football fans across diverse cultures. Roger Goodell, the visionary behind this global expansion, has been relentless in pushing the boundaries of the sport.
Goodell envisions a future where football is a global phenomenon. "We feel like this game is destined to be global," he says, emphasizing the league's international aspirations. His leadership has been instrumental in driving this extensive agenda forward.
New Ventures in Europe and Latin America
Not stopping at Brazil, the NFL already has its sights set on Madrid, Spain, for next season. This addition follows the league’s strategy to continually introduce American football to new markets. Furthermore, plans to reestablish games in Mexico City underscore the NFL's commitment to its fans in Latin America.
Goodell is optimistic about the league's future in various continents, asserting, “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.” This forward-thinking approach is designed to secure sustained interest and cultivate new cadres of fans worldwide.
Commitment from NFL Franchises
Backing these international ambitions is a resolution passed by NFL ownership. This mandate requires every franchise to host at least one international game every four years. Consequently, each team must sacrifice a valuable home game to fulfill this obligation. "I think the ownership has been great on that," Goodell remarked. "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).”
The current cap on international games is set at eight per season, but Goodell hinted at the potential for expansion: “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." This scalability speaks to the league's long-term commitment to global outreach.
The Push for New Markets
Additionally, the NFL is exploring novel territories such as Paris, Dublin, and several prospective cities in Australia. These moves are integral to the league's strategy to foster and grow a new era of international fans. Each new location represents an opportunity to ingratiate American football within different cultural contexts, further embedding the sport in the global sports landscape.
With these calculated steps, the NFL aims to not just participate in international markets but to create a loyal base of supporters who resonate with the sport’s unique appeal. This global vision envisaged by Roger Goodell is set to define the future of American football, bringing the excitement and thrill of the game to a diverse, worldwide audience.