The NFL is reportedly eyeing Spain for a 2024 international game, with one team emerging as a likely contender due to logistics and fan appeal.
The NFL has ventured into multiple international territories for regular-season games, and it seems Spain might soon join the list.
As per Football Zebras, there's buzz suggesting the NFL could introduce Spain to its international itinerary as early as the next season. Madrid stands out as the prospective host city with two stadiums under consideration.
Real Madrid's iconic Estadio Santiago Bernabéu is one of them. Currently undergoing a facelift, the revamped stadium will boast a state-of-the-art retractable field, allowing swift conversion from a soccer pitch to an American football ground. A demonstration of this transformation can be seen in a video linked below.
The second contender is Estadio Metropolitano, the sporting abode of Atlético Madrid.
The NFL's intention to explore the Spanish market was somewhat hinted at back in November 2022. Brett Gosper, overseeing the NFL's operations in the UK and Europe, acknowledged both Spain and France as potential hosts for forthcoming international games.
Highlighting the appeal, Gosper remarked, "Both are vibrant media landscapes and have a pulsating sports culture. Our streaming stats and consumer sales figures from these markets are promising. In-depth data analysis further cements their prospects."
In December 2021, several NFL teams, including the Dolphins and Bears, secured international marketing rights for Spain. This move strategically positions these teams as prime candidates for a Spanish game.
Currently, the Bears seem to have an edge. This speculation stems from the fact that key members from the Bears' side visited Spain in February. During this trip, Gustavo Silva, a Bears representative, expressed keen interest in seeing the team play in Spain, stating to The Associated Press, "There's a palpable optimism surrounding an NFL game here in Spain. Though I can't pinpoint specifics, the Chicago Bears are very much eager to be part of this historical game."
The NFC's scheduling structure further favors the Bears, as they'll be hosting nine home games next season, positioning them ideally for international fixtures. Moreover, the NFL has planned five international encounters for the 2023 season � three in England and two in Germany.
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14 SEPTEMBRE | 20 ANSWERS The NFL is reportedly eyeing Spain for a 2024 international game, with one team emerging as a likely contender due to logistics and fan appeal. Do you like international games? | ||
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