The NFL's decision shows its commitment to expanding its influence beyond traditional borders and reaching a diverse international audience.
In a groundbreaking announcement on Monday, the National Football League (NFL) declared the Philadelphia Eagles as the team of choice for its historic regular-season opener in South America.
The much-awaited clash is scheduled for September 6, 2024 at the famous Corinthians Arena in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
A harbinger of the league's global aspirations, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell proudly introduced the Eagles as the team charged with taking the legacy of American football to new frontiers. The decision reflects the NFL's commitment to expanding its influence beyond traditional borders and reaching a diverse international audience.
“This historic first international game in South America demonstrates the continued expansion of our global footprint,” Commissioner Goodell emphasized. “Playing on Friday night of the first week is a unique way to highlight our growth and international ambitions.”
Breaking with tradition, the game will take place on Friday night during opening week, a strategic move to captivate a broader global audience. This departure from the norm, not seen since 1970, underscores the league's dedication to innovation and its pursuit of an increasingly international fan base.
Sao Paulo, chosen as the privileged host city, expressed its gratitude for the approval of the NFL. Mayor Ricardo Nunes praised the decision, saying, “The league's decision… is a true testament to their confidence in our work as a host city.” The Corinthians Arena, with its storied history as the venue for the 2014 FIFA World Cup, adds a touch of grandeur to the upcoming on-field spectacle.
Eagles President and CEO Jeffrey Lurie echoed the sentiments of honor and expressed the team's excitement at being selected. Lurie commented: “With the global growth of our sport being a top priority for our league, we embrace the opportunity to grow our fan base around the world and bring Eagles football to the 38 million sports fans in Brazil”.
The NFL's South American debut marks a significant step in the league's continued internationalization efforts. Beyond the Eagles' participation, other teams, including the Chicago Bears, Minnesota Vikings, Jacksonville Jaguars and Carolina Panthers, will participate in overseas games during the 2024 season.
London draws the Bears, Vikings and Jaguars, while the Panthers prepare for a game in the football-loving city of Munich.
As the countdown to September 6 begins, Sao Paulo anticipates an influx of soccer enthusiasts eager to witness history unfold on their turf. The game is not simply a sporting event; symbolizes the NFL's commitment to transcend borders and unite diverse cultures through the universal language of football.
