The Miami Dolphins are set to make history as they participate in the inaugural regular-season NFL game in Spain. This groundbreaking event will take place in Madrid at the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home of Real Madrid. Announced by the league via Instagram on Friday, this game is part of the NFL's ambitious global expansion strategy aiming to reach various European cities this season.
With a seating capacity exceeding 78,000, the stadium is poised to host this monumental occasion, equipped with a retractable field that can accommodate American football. The Dolphins will serve as the "home" team in a nation where the NFL is rapidly gaining a fanbase. Tom Garfinkel, the Dolphins' president and CEO, expressed his excitement about being part of such a unique event. "We are thrilled to play the NFL's first-ever game in Spain, a country rich in history and passionate about sports, and home to a vibrant Dolphins fan base," he emphasized.
While the exact date and Miami's opponent for the game will be announced in the spring of 2025, this matchup underscores the NFL's dedication to enhancing its global footprint. Moreover, the Dolphins, alongside the Chicago Bears, possess marketing rights in Spain as part of the league's Global Markets Program, which allows teams to host events and enter commercial agreements in international markets.
Brett Gosper, the NFL's Head of Europe, highlighted that this event is a testament to the league's continuous effort to attract new audiences. "The thrilling first game in Spain underscores our commitment to expanding our global presence and reaching new fans worldwide," he remarked.
The game in Madrid is just one aspect of the NFL's international plans. For the 2025 season, the league has scheduled up to eight regular-season games outside the United States, aiming to solidify and broaden its presence. As part of this expansion project, other cities such as London, Berlin, and São Paulo will also host NFL games.
Emilio Butragueño, director of institutional relations at Real Madrid, expressed the institution's pride in hosting this event: "This partnership with the NFL will bring one of the world's most prestigious sports competitions to the Santiago Bernabéu, a stadium that has welcomed millions of passionate fans from around the globe."
Understanding the NFL's Global Expansion Plans
Why is the NFL playing a game in Spain?
The NFL is playing a game in Spain as part of its global expansion strategy to reach new audiences and grow the sport's popularity internationally.
When will the NFL game in Madrid take place?
The exact date of the NFL game in Madrid will be announced in the spring of 2025.
Which teams are involved in the NFL's Global Markets Program in Spain?
The Miami Dolphins and the Chicago Bears are involved in the NFL's Global Markets Program in Spain, granting them marketing rights and opportunities to engage with local fans.