The NFL is set to expand its presence in Europe next year by hosting its first regular season game in Berlin. This addition places Germany’s capital alongside Munich and Frankfurt as part of the league’s strategy to grow its international fan base.
Berlin’s Olympic Stadium will be the venue for the city’s inaugural regular season NFL game in 2025, marking the beginning of a “multiyear commitment to playing games in the sports metropolis,” according to the NFL’s announcement on Wednesday.
In collaboration with Berlin’s local government, the NFL will also focus on nurturing flag football talent in preparation for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, where the sport will make its debut in the international competition.
This announcement comes as the NFL continues to explore new international locations for expanding its overseas games. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell mentioned that the league aims to schedule up to eight games outside the U.S. next year.
In 2025, the NFL plans to return to Mexico City, Brazil, and England, while also introducing games in Berlin and Madrid for the first time, with a potential game in Ireland. Dublin’s Aviva Stadium and Croke Park, which hosted a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Chicago Bears in 1997, are considered possible venues.