NFL to Play in Berlin, Spain and More in 2025 Global Push

The NFL is intensifying its global expansion efforts, with 2025 set to be a milestone year. Following Berlin’s inclusion, the league has confirmed it will host up to eight international games continuing its push to become “a true global sports property.” The NFL has already staged regular-season games in the UK, Mexico, Germany and Brazil with London hosting three games and Munich welcoming one this season.

In 2025, the league plans to play three games in London, a game in Berlin and potentially a match in Spain at the Bernabeu stadium. The NFL also aims to return to Brazil and Mexico with potential games in Rio de Janeiro and Dublin’s Croke Park. Additionally, the NFL is exploring possibilities in Abu Dhabi, Australia and other cities. The league’s long-term goal is to increase the international schedule to 16 games per season and expand the regular season to 18 weeks.

While a Super Bowl abroad is not a priority, the NFL is focusing on growing its regular-season international presence. The league’s expansion is part of a larger strategy to enhance global brand awareness with 25 of the 32 teams involved in the league’s global marketing program. Streaming services and social media have broadened the NFL’s reach, making it the most profitable sports league globally with $20bn in revenue for 2023.

The NFL’s international games have had significant economic impacts such as the Sao Paulo game which brought in nearly $62m. The league’s international efforts are seen as vital for its future growth both in terms of fan engagement and revenue generation as it continues to dominate the U.S. sports market.