LONDON — The possibility of hosting the Super Bowl internationally is a question that frequently arises during Roger Goodell’s visits to London. Traditionally, the NFL’s premier event is confined to cities housing NFL teams, but as Goodell conveyed last October, “things change,” signaling the potential for this major undertaking in the future.
As the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles gear up for their Super Bowl matchup in New Orleans on February 9, attention turns to critical aspects and prospective locations if the NFL ever opts to take its spotlight event global, aiming to reach a wider audience.
When considering this move, it’s clear it wouldn’t occur immediately. The Super Bowl sites are already designated through 2028, with league officials prioritizing the expansion of regular-season games internationally. Currently capped at eight games per season, efforts are underway to increase that number. This season saw Brazil host a game, while Spain is next on the list. Additional countries such as Ireland, Australia, and possibly the United Arab Emirates are also on the radar.
Time zones, weather, and the prominence of American audiences pose challenges too. Traditionally, fans expect a 6:30 p.m. ET kickoff, but this would require significant adjustments for locations like London, which is five hours ahead, and even further for places like Germany and Spain. Hosting a game in Mexico City or Brazil could have logistical benefits in terms of scheduling.
Weather conditions in Europe during February can be unpredictable; however, venues such as Real Madrid’s updated Santiago Bernabeu Stadium have a retractable roof, mitigating weather-related concerns. Interestingly, Europe is experiencing accelerated warming. For instance, the UK recorded its warmest February last year, while Germany encountered its third-warmest winter.
Goodell’s remarks in London coincided with discussions around the U.S. political landscape, which may influence scheduling and logistical considerations for the NFL. While cities in the U.S. are typically accommodating to meet the NFL’s extensive requirements during Super Bowl week, European local governments might not have the same financial flexibility to support such grand events, as noted by a sports management expert.
Here’s a glance at some of the potential venues for an international Super Bowl:
**Azteca Stadium, Mexico City**
*Pros:* The time zone alignment, closeness to the U.S., and favorable weather conditions make it attractive. Azteca has a historical significance, hosting numerous notable football matches, including World Cup games by legends like Pele and Maradona.
*Cons:* Its high altitude (7,200 feet) may pose challenges for player endurance, as seen in the past when a game was canceled due to field issues.
**Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London**
*Pros:* This modern venue was built with the NFL in mind, featuring cutting-edge facilities and dedicated NFL amenities. It has hosted games since 2019 and maintains a contractual agreement with the league.
*Cons:* Challenges include time zone differences, unpredictable weather, and a seating capacity under 63,000.
**Wembley Stadium, London**
*Pros:* Known as the NFL’s classic European venue, Wembley hosted the first international regular-season game in 2007 and accommodates over 86,000 fans. Its experience hosting NFL games adds to its appeal.
*Cons:* Similar weather and time zone issues persist here.
**Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, Madrid**
*Pros:* With a retractable roof and an upcoming commitment for an NFL regular-season game in 2025, its capacity of over 78,000 adds significant attraction.
*Cons:* Time zone differences would still need to be addressed.
**Camp Nou, Barcelona**
*Pros:* A renovated Camp Nou could accommodate an astonishing 104,000 spectators, potentially setting a record for Super Bowl attendance. The favorable Mediterranean climate also adds appeal.
*Cons:* It remains outside the NFL’s regular rotation at present, and time zone issues would need consideration.
**Olympic Stadium, Berlin**
*Pros:* Following a significant interest from the NFL, this venue will host its first regular-season game in 2025, benefiting from its location in the capital with a capacity exceeding 74,000.
*Cons:* Similar time zone and weather concerns prevail here.
**Stade de France, Paris**
*Pros:* The iconic location and an 80,000 seating capacity could entice attendees.
*Cons:* The NFL and venue operators have yet to finalize discussions regarding a regular-season game, introducing uncertainty.
**Croke Park, Dublin**
*Pros:* One of the largest stadiums in Europe, capable of holding over 86,000 spectators, Dublin has experience handling large crowds from college football events.
*Cons:* It is not currently within the NFL’s operational scope, alongside the usual time zone and weather challenges.
**Maracana Stadium, Rio de Janeiro**
*Pros:* With strategic timing before Brazil’s Carnival, this venue offers significant allure for traveling fans and has a capacity of 78,000.
*Cons:* It is not part of the NFL’s current plans, and players might be confronted with suboptimal heat conditions during February, typically Rio’s hottest month.
The landscape suggests that while the NFL is exploring various international avenues, it may take time before the prospect of hosting a Super Bowl abroad becomes a reality worthy of significant global attention.
