The eagerly anticipated first game in Madrid, marked by the unveiling of a new logo featuring the 'Madrid Game' on the 9th of February, will now be held in 2025 instead of 2024.
One of the notable features of the renovated Bernabéu Stadium is its retractable playing surface. This innovative design allows for the seamless transformation of the football pitch into an NFL-quality field, eliminating the challenge of preparing the facility for an American football game. Following the footsteps of England's Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, which was purpose-built to cater to both the Premier League club and international NFL games, Bernabéu Stadium now joins the ranks of versatile venues. Tottenham Hotspur Stadium has successfully hosted eight NFL games to date, including two in the 2023 season, and in September, the NFL extended its partnership with the club until the 2029-2030 season.
If all goes as planned, Madrid has the potential to become a consistent feature in the NFL's international lineup, joining other established locations, such as:
The NFL has been organising games in London as part of its international series since 2007. These games are usually held at Wembley Stadium and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The first game to be considered part of the American Bowl was held in 1986 at Wembley Stadium. The Chicago Bears defeated the Dallas Cowboys 17-6 in the first of eight games played in London, all at Wembley.
Since 2007, when the NFL's international series began, there have been numerous games played in London. The series has three sub-series: the NFL London Games in the United Kingdom, the NFL Germany Games in multiple cities, and the NFL Brazil game. The games played in London have featured various NFL teams, giving fans in London the opportunity to see their favourite teams and players in action.
In recent years, the NFL has been intent on establishing a presence in London, with the league sending teams to play there to build a stronger fan base. This initiative has been successful in generating interest and support for the NFL in the United Kingdom.
Overall, the NFL games in London have helped to expand the popularity of the sport internationally and provide fans in London and other parts of the world the opportunity to experience live NFL games.
Previous Fixtures:
- Baltimore Ravens vs. Tennesee Titans (October 15th 2023): (24-16) - Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
- Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Buffalo Bills (October 8th 2023): (25-20) - Tottenham Hotspur
- Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Atalanta Falcons (October 1st 2023): (23-7) - Wembley Stadium
- Denver Broncos vs. Jacksonville Jaguars (October 30th 2022): (21-17) - Wembley Stadium
- New York Giants vs. Green Bay Packers (October 9th 2022): (27-22) - Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
- Minnesota Vikings vs. New Orleans Saints (October 2nd 2022): (28-25) - Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.