NFL Commissioner Goodell Confirms Berlin as Potential Host City for Future Games in Germany

https://icaro.icaromediagroup.com/system/images/photos/16394386/original/open-uri20241109-18-18pj8p1?1731181721
ICARO Media Group
News
09/11/2024 19h45

### NFL Eyes Berlin for Future Games, Goodell Confirms

MUNICH -- NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has confirmed that the NFL is considering bringing games to Berlin, much to the excitement of German fans. This marks a significant expansion of the league's footprint in Germany, following the success of previous games in Munich and Frankfurt.

In a Q-and-A session with fans in Munich, Goodell addressed the swirling rumors directly. "I usually tell people, 'Don't believe rumors.' In this case, I might say, 'Believe it,'" he remarked. "We're working on it, but it isn't finalized. We really feel like Berlin would be a great addition, so we're looking very hard at that. Our people have been working very hard at it. But I want to add that does not mean we're not going to be back in Frankfurt and Munich."

German news outlets dpa and RTL reported that discussions are underway with the Berlin city government to host a game in the future. This signals a significant shift since Berlin was not among the initial cities considered in 2021, with Frankfurt, Munich, and Dusseldorf making the final cut.

Berlin holds a special place for Goodell, who has a historical connection to the city. He reminisced about the NFL's first exhibition game in Germany in 1990, less than a year after the fall of the Berlin Wall. The game between the Los Angeles Rams and Kansas City Chiefs at Berlin's Olympic Stadium left a lasting impression on both Goodell and the fans. "It was one of my favorite events," Goodell shared. "The German fans were just fantastic and overwhelming."

The NFL's expansion plans include hosting eight games internationally each season, a goal set by team owners in December. Goodell has an even more ambitious long-term target of 16 international games. This year saw the NFL play its first game in Brazil, and next year, they plan to break new ground with a game in Madrid, Spain. London has also continued to be a key location, hosting three games this season.

With the potential addition of Berlin, the NFL's international presence looks poised for significant growth, further cementing the sport's global appeal.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

Related