Quick Facts
- NFL’s Global Ambitions: The league is focused on extending its reach by considering a Super Bowl in London.
- Regular Season Expansions: Alongside London, discussions include staging regular season games in Brazil and Australia.
- Time Constraints: Organizing a Super Bowl in London would pose timing challenges, requiring the game to begin at 8:30 PM local time.
With a vision to globalize American football, the NFL is actively deliberating the feasibility of hosting a Super Bowl in London. This intent was shared by Commissioner Roger Goodell during a recent fan forum in London, organized to promote the regular season game between Baltimore Ravens and Tennessee Titans.
The notion of an international Super Bowl isn’t an immediate plan but has undergone multiple rounds of discussion. As for the upcoming Super Bowl venues, Las Vegas, New Orleans, and Santa Clara are already booked. Post these games, the field is open, though the NFL’s general preference remains with cities that already have a franchise. Besides, the league has successfully hosted regular matches in countries such as Germany and Mexico, and locations like Spain and Brazil are now under contemplation. Australia is also on the table, albeit with significant timezone issues to tackle.
London’s potential to host the Super Bowl brings its own set of challenges. The game would need to align with traditional U.S. viewing hours, mandating a 8:30 PM start in London. This translates to 3:30 PM Eastern Time and 12:30 PM Pacific Time, posing potential broadcast difficulties.
| For Further Reading |
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| The Super Bowl is the annual championship game of the National Football League (NFL). It’s not only an athletic event but a major cultural phenomenon in the U.S. The game is the culmination of a regular season that starts in the late summer of the previous year. Over the years, the Super Bowl has become notable for its commercials, halftime shows, and parties. The game has a significant impact on the U.S. economy and is one of the most-watched sporting events globally. |
Q&A
Why is the NFL considering international venues?
The NFL aims to globalize American football and expand its influence and audience reach.
How will the time difference be managed for a London Super Bowl?
The game would likely start at 8:30 PM local London time to align with traditional U.S. viewing hours.
Are other countries also being considered for regular season games?
Yes, apart from London, the NFL is considering Brazil, Australia, Spain, and possibly others.