Earlier this week, NFL owners voted to expand the slate of international contests in 2027. As many as 11 games will be played outside of the United States next season as a result.
The league has made continued expansion into new markets a long-running priority, and that remains the case presently. Exploration of other countries which could serve as the host for regular-season games could soon lead to the list of markets growing once again. Hints on that front emerged during the recent owners’ meeting.
When asked by Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer about where the league could turn next, NFL executive vice president Peter O’Reilly specifically mentioned Japan. It will be interesting to see if efforts pick up in the near future to set up a game there over the coming years. One team (the Rams) currently holds marketing rights in Japan.
In 1936, Japan’s football federation was created. The organization is therefore one of the oldest outside of the United States and Canada. Japan also won each of the first two editions of the IFAF World Championship for tackle football before hosting the event in 2007.
It would thus comes as little surprise if Japan were to become a regular host country for NFL action relatively soon. The matter of travel distance is among the logistical issues which will be raised, although 2026 will see the Rams and 49ers play each other in Melbourne, Australia. The league already intends to return there before seeing how this fall’s debut contest plays out, so games staged well beyond Mexico, Brazil and Europe could increase in regularity down the road.
Breer writes Italy should also be considered a strong candidate to host NFL games soon. Further expansion throughout Europe can certainly be anticipated, but attempting to break through in Asian markets could begin with a presence in Japan.
Konichiwa!!!
*waves excitedly*
“Domo arigato… Mr.Roboto”