Munich to Stage First NFL Regular-Season Game in Germany
Frankfurt to host future games; four games to be shared between two cities over four years
Posted On: February 10, 2022 By :Allianz Arena in Munich will host the first NFL regular-season game in Germany next season, the league announced on Wednesday, with two games over the next four seasons being played in Munich. Two other games will be staged in Frankfurt at Frankfurt Stadium.
“We are looking forward to partnerships with Munich and Frankfurt that will extend beyond the games and help us to deliver accelerated growth in Germany,” said Brett Gosper, NFL head of Europe and UK. “The strong interest we received underlined what a fantastic opportunity regular-season games offer for a host, ranging from significant economic benefits and global exposure to the chance to become a hub for the growth of the NFL’s fan engagement, community and grassroots activities.”
The game in Munich will be one of five international games in 2022, including one in Mexico and three in London, two at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and a Jacksonville Jaguars home game at Wembley Stadium. Other home teams for international games will be announced in the coming weeks.
“We have been collaborating with the NFL since 2014 when we opened our US office,” said Oliver Kahn, chief executive officer of Bundesliga powerhouse Bayern Munich. “Our ambition was to reach and engage fans in each other’s respective home countries. We are delighted to take this next step in our long-term partnership to host a regular-season NFL game at our home stadium.”
The selection process for NFL games in Germany began last year with expressions of interest from nine cities, after which Düsseldorf, Frankfurt and Munich were invited to participate in a full evaluation. The staging of regular-season games is part of the NFL’s growing commitment to Germany, including a permanent headquarters in the country.
“American football was and still is at home in Frankfurt,” Frankfurt Sports Councilor Mike Josef said. “That’s why I’m very pleased about the NFL’s decision to come to Frankfurt on a regular basis. The NFL is not just coming to Frankfurt for a game. With its sustainable engagement in our community, we are sure to achieve a great boost for sports in Frankfurt.”
Bundesliga Chief Executive Officer Donata Hopfen said: “We are pleased that the NFL has consulted with the Bundesliga in the planning of its first regular-season NFL games in Germany. These conversations have led both leagues to agree to explore the potential of a mutually beneficial collaborative partnership, which is very exciting for clubs in both leagues.”
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