The NFL is actively expanding its international market for American football, having held regular season games in London since 2007 and recently adding Germany to the list.
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The league is set to host its first game in São Paulo, Brazil, in Week 1, featuring the Green Bay Packers versus the Philadelphia Eagles. Spain is also being considered for 2025, and now, the Pittsburgh Steelers are reportedly collaborating with the NFL to host a regular season game in Ireland.
Dan Rooney, the Steelers’ Director of Business Development and Strategy, revealed their plans to return to Croke Park, where they played a preseason game in 1997—the last time the NFL visited Ireland.
Rooney told BBC Sports, “Our goal has always been to play a live game in front of Irish fans. We’re working with the NFL on this and are eager to see what develops.”
Steelers owner Dan Rooney and NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell
TAMPA, FL – FEBRUARY 01: NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell (L) presents Dan Rooney, owner of the Pittsburgh Steelers, with the Vince Lombardi Trophy after the Steelers’ 27-23 victory over the Arizona Cardinals during Super Bowl XLIII. (Photo by AL BELLO/GETTY IMAGES)
Rooney added, “We’re waiting for the NFL’s findings, and we’ve expressed our interest in playing in Ireland. It’s an exciting prospect, whether at Croke Park or another venue, but the final decision rests with the NFL.”
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has emphasized that international outreach is a top priority. Ahead of the 2024 NFL Draft, Goodell told ESPN, “In ten years, I envision us playing 16 international games. We aim to reach eight or nine in the next few years.”
For the 2024 season, the NFL will play three games in London, one in Germany, and one in Brazil. While a game in Ireland may still be a few years away, it remains a strong possibility.
