The National Football League (NFL) is one of the most popular sports leagues in the world. While the majority of NFL games take place in the United States, there have been instances where games have been played internationally. In this article, we will explore how many NFL games are held outside of the U.S. and what factors influence these decisions.
International NFL Games: A Brief History
The first NFL game to be held outside of the U.S. was the 1976 London Super Bowl. This game was played at Wembley Stadium, and it was a historic event that marked the beginning of the NFL’s international expansion. Since then, there have been several other NFL games held internationally, including the 2016 London International Series and the 2018 Mexico City Rams vs. Chargers game.
Factors Influencing International NFL Games
There are several factors that influence the decision to hold NFL games internationally. One of the main reasons is to increase the league’s global brand recognition. By playing games in other countries, the NFL can reach new audiences and expand its fan base. Additionally, international NFL games provide an opportunity for the league to generate revenue through ticket sales, merchandise, and advertising.
Another factor that influences international NFL games is the demand for football in those particular countries. Football is a popular sport in many parts of the world, and some countries have a large enough fan base to justify hosting NFL games. For example, Mexico has a long history of football, and there are millions of fans who would be interested in seeing an NFL game played in their country.
International NFL Games: The Future
It is likely that we will see more NFL games being held internationally in the future. As the league continues to expand its global presence, it will look for new opportunities to reach new audiences and generate revenue. While the majority of NFL games will continue to be played in the United States, it is clear that there is a growing interest in international football, and the NFL is not immune to this trend.
Summary
In conclusion, while the majority of NFL games are held in the United States, there have been several instances where games have been played internationally. These games are typically held for the purpose of increasing the league’s global brand recognition and generating revenue through ticket sales, merchandise, and advertising. As football continues to be a popular sport around the world, it is likely that we will see more NFL games being held internationally in the future.
